Mr. Willie Everette Ritchie

Mr. Willie Everette Ritchie, 88, of Hwy 70 West, Drexel, NC, died Saturday, November 11, 2006 at Autumn Care of Drexel. Mr. Ritchie was born in August 3, 1918 in Lincoln County, NC, to the late Will Guy Ritchie and Essie Hoyle Ritchie. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Julettie Duckworth Ritchie; a step-mother, Maude Lowman Ritchie; a brother, Ornie Ritchie, and a sister, Bertha Wilson. He was a member of Morganton First Church of God and a U.S. Navy Veteran of World War II during which he served aboard a mine sweeping ship in the South Pacific Theater. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion, having served in many capacities including Post Commander and District Commander. He retired from Drexel Heritage Furniture Co. after 43 years of service.

Surviving are his son, Slayton Ritchie and wife, Barbara, of Bethlehem, NC; a daughter, Patsy Ritchie of Drexel; and a grandson, Clay Ritchie of Valdese, NC.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 14, 2006 at Morganton First Church of God with the Rev. Jerry McGarrity and Pastor Emeritus Donald J. Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park with military graveside rites to be performed by American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Morganton First Church of God, P.O. Box 1404, Morganton, NC 28680 and to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.