Lois F. Ritchey

Lois Fern (Prather) Ritchey July 23, 1949 – September 25, 2025

Lois Fern Ritchey, 76, passed away peacefully at home on September 25, 2025, surrounded by family. She was a beloved sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who blessed those around her with humor, heart, and a spirited streak that made life more interesting for everyone lucky enough to know her. Though not religious, Lois held an unwavering faith in her salvation through Jesus Christ.

Lois was born in Yuma, Colorado, on July 23, 1949, the oldest child of Leo "Teck" and Beryl "Boots" (Cornish) Prather. In her early childhood the family lived west of Vernon, with a few years in Wray when Teck worked as a plumber. Lois attended school in Vernon through the eighth grade and graduated from Wray High School in 1967. As a young girl, she was active in 4-H, where she learned to sew-a skill that became a lifelong gift.

On December 4, 1965, Lois married Gene Ritchey, and together they welcomed three children: Ronald Wayne, Travis Gene, and Sabrena Kay. Throughout her life, Lois worked hard and dedicated herself to her community. She held positions at the Sandhiller, ACE Hardware, Lukas Appliance, Yuma County Federal Credit Union, and Hillcrest Care Center, and also provided home health care. While working in healthcare, she earned certification as a nursing assistant.

Lois found love again with Sonny Ritchey, whom she married on November 12, 1992. Their marriage brought joy to her life and gave her the opportunity to enjoy her family and hobbies more fully. She was a devoted grandmother, rarely missing a sporting event, 4-H activity, or celebration. Many children, whether related or not, lovingly knew her as "Grandma Lois." Her home was always open, often with a glass of tea or a can of Pepsi ready for guests.

Lois had many interests and talents. She was a gifted seamstress and quilter, always with a project on hand. She enjoyed working around the house, yard, and shop, often alongside Sonny. She was equally handy with tools and not afraid to shoot a snake with a shotgun when needed. Lois and Sonny also enjoyed meals at Riverside Café, where she even had a special salad created just for her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands; her sister-in-law, Mabel Snelling; her brother-in-law, Dennis Orent; and her daughter-in-law, Kasuma Ritchey.

She is survived by her children: Ron Ritchey, Travis Ritchey, and Sabrena (Brian) McCasland; stepchildren Jerry (Michelle) Ritchey and Tonia (Todd) Roseberry; sisters Penny (Bill) Brubaker, Peggy (Andy) Weaver, and Rhonda (Tom) Stark; brother Rodney (Rickie) Prather; grandchildren Simone Ritchey, Carson Ritchey, Gavin Ritchey, Ozzi Ritchey, Kordell McCasland, Kenzie (Caleb) Wonderly, Kennedi McCasland, Jarrett (Brandi) Ritchey, Peyton (Kristanis) Ritchey, Morgan Koch, and Brandon Koch; and great-grandchildren Charly, Odessa, Avery, Allie, Addison, Arbor, Jackson, Auden, Parker, Kendree, Presleigh, Ember, and Pierson-along with many other loving family members and friends.

Services for Lois were held on October 3, 2025, at the Wray United Methodist Church. Inurnment followed at Grandview Cemetery in Wray. Memorials may be made to Quilters Anonymous.