Myrtle Ritchie

Myrtle B. Ritchie, age 96, of Manchester, Tennessee, passed away on February 14, 2026, at the Manchester Center for Rehab and Healing. Born on September 25, 1929, in Coffee County, she was the daughter of the late George and Bertha Bennett. Myrtle was a well-known figure in the community, most recognized for managing the restaurant at the local Days Inn, where she took great pride in serving both locals and travelers alike.

A woman of many passions, Myrtle truly loved flowers-especially buttercups-and had a deep appreciation for all plants. She found great joy in gardening whenever she was able. Above all, she was most fond of her 4 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, who were the center of her world. Myrtle loved nothing more than cooking and preparing large meals for her family during their many get-togethers, creating memories that will be cherished forever.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Virgil Ritchie; her parents; daughters, Linda Brandon and JoAnn Ritchie; and four sisters, Violet Roberts, Mildred Miller, Naoma DeVault, and Georgia Bennett; and brothers, U.G. Bennett, Howard Bennett, William Bennett.

Myrtle is survived by her son, Steven V. Ritchie. She also leaves behind her brother, Leonard Bennett; her sister, Betty Hale; and a legacy of many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and a special niece, Kathy Johnson, who is more like a daughter.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 PM on Wednesday February 18, 2026 at Hopewell Cemetery in Manchester, TN, with Brother Joe Roberts officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Coffee County Humane Society.