Robert Eugene Ritch

Robert Eugene Ritch, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and lifelong resident of Greensboro, NC, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2024, at the age of 92. Robert, known affectionately as "Bob" or "Bobby" to his friends and family, was born on May 14, 1931 in downtown Greensboro in a house on N. Spring St.

From a young age, Bob had a passion for music. At the age of 8, Bob followed in his brothers' footsteps and began playing the trumpet, something that would remain with him and shape much of his life. He and his brothers studied music under Herbert Hazelman, a Greensboro music legend. As young boys they gained swimming and diving skills at Camp Evergreen where their mother was the camp nurse.

After graduating from high school, Bob pursued his education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he joined the marching band and the gymnastics team.

In 1952 during the Korean War, Bob first joined the 8th Infantry Division of the Army Band at Fort Jackson in South Carolina and was transferred in 1953 to the Third Army Band stationed at Fort McPherson near Atlanta.

Upon returning to Greensboro and back to UNC Chapel Hill, Bob majored in industrial relations but immersed himself in the local music scene. He either went with his brothers or his buddies to hear performers like a young Lou Donaldson or performed himself in numerous jazz combos, big bands, and supper clubs in town. Among the musicians he played with was tenor saxophonist, Dannie Richmond, who later became Charlie Mingus' drummer and was the brother of civil rights activist David Richmond of the Greensboro Four.

By day, Bob sold medical supplies at Winchester-Ritch but continued his musical career well into his 90s. He played at the opening of the Greensboro Coliseum in 1959 and for notable events there including the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, ice shows, and backed renowned artists at the coliseum and UNC Greensboro auditorium like Little Stevie Wonder.

In addition to his musical pursuits, Bob shared many passions with his beloved wife, Dawn Allred. Together, they enjoyed playing golf, relaxing at the beach, traveling to Disney World with the family and often showed their Tar Heel pride by attending countless football and basketball games through the years.

Bob's greatest joy came from spending time with his family and never missed an opportunity to see and support them. Bob had two daughters Sally (Billy) Phillips and Martha (Chris) Moore and five grandchildren: Ryan, Jonathan, Ellen, Kevin and Neal.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Mary Honeycutt Ritch and Perry Holmes Ritch, Sr., his brothers Perry Jr. and John, and his daughter Sally. He leaves a deep love for music, a keen sense of humor, and a preference for orange Tootsie Pops.

The family will hold a private graveside celebration of Bob's life.