Cleo Delphine Ritchie

Cleo Delphine Ritchie, 89, of Harrah, Washington, passed away peacefully in her home on February 16, 2026. She walked closely with Jesus throughout her life, and her family now rejoices in the assurance that she is at peace in His presence and reunited with her beloved husband.

Cleo was born on January 31, 1937, in Wapato, WA, to Everett and Gladys Early, of Wapato. After graduating from Wapato High School, Cleo attended Yakima Valley Junior College, where she studied business. She was gifted with numbers and attention to detail and soon began her first job at the bank in Wapato.

Mom had a simple but heartfelt dream: to marry someone tall, have children, and live in the beautiful community of Harrah. She fulfilled that dream when she married the love of her life, George Dale Ritchie. They shared 65 years of marriage before Dale's passing in March 2020.

Cleo managed the books for the family farm while raising her three children. Later, she worked at the Mt. Adams School District, where she served as Secretary to the Superintendent. After retirement, she supported Dale as they traveled to various farmer's markets in the Seattle area selling their organic fruit.

Cleo was outgoing and full of joy. She laughed easily, loved to visit, and was happiest when spending time with her family. She was an amazing cook who delighted in hosting themed dinner parties, holiday celebrations, and large family gatherings. One of her most cherished memories was a driving trip across the United States with Dale after his retirement.

She had an extraordinary eye for style and décor. Never afraid of a bold print or a leopard coat, she embraced new trends with confidence and flair. Whether overseeing a major home remodel, decorating for every season, or carefully curating antiques she collected over the years, Cleo loved designing a beautiful space.

The most important foundation of Cleo's life was her faith. She loved studying the bible, taught Sunday School at Harrah Community Church for many years and later completed the full Bible Study Fellowship series. Her faith guided her decisions, shaped her character, and sustained her through every season of life.

Cleo and Dale had two sons, Joe Ritchie of Harrah and Rob Ritchie of Zillah, and one daughter, Julie Powell of Federal Way. She is survived by sons Joe (Tracy), Rob (Tammy), and Julie (Todd). She also leaves behind nine grandchildren: Stephanie Robinson (Amad) of Fircrest, WA, and their children Memphis, Kamp, and Daiah Rae; Jordan Ritchie of Seattle; Seth Powell (Amber) of Federal Way, and their children Nellie and Oscar; Sadie Rooker (Jordan) of Sheffield, England, and their son Jesse; Lily Roberts (Hunter) of Dayton, OH, and their daughter Cora; Kiersten Ritchie of Pullman; Ian Ritchie of Missoula, MT; Ethan Ritchie (Caitlyn) of Granger, and their son Everett; and Ryker Ritchie of Pullman. Cleo is also survived by her brother, Jim Early of Wenatchee, but was preceded in death by two brothers Max Early and Roy Early.

A Private Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Terrace Heights Memorial Park. A Memorial Service will be held at Harrah Grace Brethren Church (3701 Harrah Rd., Harrah, WA 98933) at 11:30 a.m. with lunch to follow.

Brookside Funeral Home & Crematory is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at brooksidefuneral.com.