Linda Lee Ritchie, age 79, of Cape Coral, Florida, passed away on January 3, 2024, after bravely battling cancer for four years. Throughout this challenging time, her devoted husband, Larry, stood by her side, and Linda will be forever remembered as a woman of exceptional courage and warmth.

Born on August 29, 1944, in Hillsdale, Michigan, to the late Isaac Scott Earhart and Dorothy C. Earhart Fulton, Linda became the cherished wife of Larry Ritchie.

Linda’s zest for life was evident in her love for travel. She and Larry, accompanied by dear friends, explored various corners of the world, including memorable trips to Germany, England, and the Caribbean. In the Caribbean, they rented a boat, creating cherished memories on the azure waters. Closer to home, they maintained a boat on the serene Apple Valley Lake, where Linda found joy in reading on the dock, mastering the art of riding wave runners, and enjoying leisurely boat rides on Lake Erie in earlier years.

A consummate entertainer, Linda loved hosting gatherings and was renowned for her gourmet cooking skills. Her passion for creating delightful meals brought joy to family and friends alike. Beyond her culinary talents, Linda had a diverse range of interests, from a love of music and collecting antiques to needlepoint and caring for her beautiful flowers. Her interior design flair was evident in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of her home.

Linda, always with a radiant smile, had an undeniable fondness for shopping. Her infectious joy and warm spirit endeared her to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. In her professional life, Linda dedicated many years to her career, ultimately serving as Vice President of Universal Enterprises in Ontario.

On September 2, 1980, Linda and Larry exchanged vows in a beautiful ceremony in Lakewood, Colorado, establishing a foundation of joy and companionship that lasted throughout their shared life.

Linda is survived by her loving husband, Larry Ritchie; her son and daughter-in-law, Mark William and Cheryl Ritchie of St. Petersburg, FL; her granddaughter, Olivia Ritchie, her sister, Kathy Southard of Crestline, Ohio; and her brother Thomas Earhart of Middleville, Michigan. Surviving aunts include Jeanie Cotter, Shirley M. Earhart, and Shirley K. Earhart, both of Ohio, Verna Earhart of Texas, and Marylou Thompson of Florida.

Nephews and nieces who survive Linda include Scott and Tracy Earhart of Georgia, Shannon and Heather Gregory of Crestline, Ohio, and Carrie A. Page of Hastings, Michigan. Great nephews and nieces include Bobby Page, Ryan Page, Michael Page, Zachary Gregory, Austin Gregory, Lance Gregory, Jacob Earhart, Kaleigh Page, Kayla Morrison, Morgan Gregory, Jessica Gregory, and Brooklyn Gregory.

A memorial service to celebrate Linda’s remarkable life will be held 1:00 PM on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 at the Snyder Funeral Home, Lexington Ave Chapel, located at 2553 Lexington Ave in Mansfield. The service will be a moment to reflect on Linda’s kindness, dedication, and the love she shared with those fortunate enough to know her. Prior to the memorial, all are invited to gather starting at 12:00 noon, and following the service led by Rev. David Sipes, Linda will be laid to rest in the Lexington Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online at stjude.org/donate

Linda Lee Ritchie’s legacy will endure through the indelible marks of her generosity, warmth, and unwavering love.

Linda’s tribute video, her online guestbook, and more can be found at the funeral home website: https://www.snyderfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/Linda-Lee-Ritchie?obId=30311756#/obituaryInfo

Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Home, Lexington Avenue Family-Owned Chapel

Website: https://www.snyderfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/Linda-Lee-Ritchie?obId=30311756#/obituaryInfo