Lois Dortch Martin

Lois Dortch Martin, formerly known as Lois Dortch Ritch, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, in Gainesville, Florida, at the age of 88, following complications from a massive stroke. She was born on September 25, 1936, in Lake City, Florida, where she spent the majority of her life, with the exception of a brief adventure in Horseshoe Beach from 1999 to 2005.
Lois devoted thirty years of her professional life to Southern Bell, where she worked from 1957 until her retirement in 1987. Outside of her career, she found joy in creativity and craftsmanship. She was especially skilled in quilting, hand-beading, sequin work, and fabric painting. Each handmade gift she gave carried with it a piece of her heart, and those fortunate enough to receive one understood what it meant to be loved by her.
She loved to travel, visiting 47 states and many countries abroad, and especially enjoyed cruises. One of her fondest traditions was bargaining for jewelry with her good friend Yogi in St. Maarten, where she was always assured a good deal. She was also a lifelong fan of country music and treasured opportunities to hear her favorite musician, Gene Watson, in concert.
Lois was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 43 years, Ellis Ritch; her grandchild, Cheyenne "Bubbles" Morgan; her parents, Harrel Dortch and Annie Markham Dortch; her sister, Joyce Brown (and her husband James); her brother, Harry Dortch (and his wife Jenny); and her cousin and best friend, Belva Markham Erixton (and her husband Lee).
She is survived by her husband of 25 years, Max Martin; her daughters, Patti Ritch Losada (and her husband Randy) and Teresa Lockler; her step-children, Pam Martin and Wendell Martin; grandchildren, Kristi Morgan, Megan Williams, and Blake Williams; step-grandson, Maxie Martin; and great-grandchild, Taylor Morgan.
Lois was a selfless woman of God who gave her time, love, and energy generously to others. Her faith, warmth, and giving spirit will be remembered by all who knew her.
A funeral service will be conducted at 3:00 P.M. on Friday, September 26, 2025, at Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home, 3596 South US 441, Lake City, FL 32025. Interment will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery, 2115 State Route 100, Lake City, Florida. The family will have a time of visitation immediately following the funeral service at the chapel. Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.