Earl Franklin Ritch

Earl Franklin Ritch of Sachse, Texas, passed away on June 8, 2026, at the age of 83.

He was born on February 27, 1943, in Concord, North Carolina, Earl was the son of Lindsey F. Ritch and Thelma M. Mills Ritch.

Earl is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Sue Ritch; his daughter, Cheryl D. Jenkins and husband Joe of Vancouver, Washington, and their sons, Curtis and Brian Jenkins; his son, Jeffrey A. Ritch and wife Shehnaz of McKinney, Texas, and their daughter, Aliana. He is also survived by two brothers, Freeman L. “Buster” Ritch of Newton Grove, North Carolina, and Terry L. Ritch of Kings Mountain, North Carolina; and his sister, Rena C. Jones of Paris, Kentucky.

Earl proudly served his country in the United States Navy, retiring with the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer after 22 years of dedicated service. Following his military career, he worked as a long-haul truck driver and later in real estate.

Earl enjoyed cooking, recording and listening to music, traveling, camping, cruising, and coin collecting. He especially loved his dachshunds and treasured the companionship they brought to his life.

A faithful Christian, Earl sang in the church choir, served on various church committees, and was devoted to his faith. He loved the Lord and sought to live his life in service to Him and others.

The funeral service will be conducted at 12:00 pm on Tuesday, June 16th at the Harrelson Funeral Chapel with Reverend Ernie Cole officiating. Interment will follow at Eternal Hills Memorial Park. Military honors will be accorded by the Rutherford County Honor Guard. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time at the funeral home on Tuesday.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.