Robert "Bobby" Ritter

Robert Hilton Ritter (Bobby), age 79, went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 23, 2026. He died in his home with his devoted wife, Beth by his side. He was a man of few words but when he spoke, it was truthful and with guidance for those in his family and in his occupation.

Bobby was preceded in death by his loving parents, James Silas Ritter, Sr. and Edna Howell Ritter.

Bobby was born on June 30, 1946 in Hamlet, NC and graduated from Hamlet High School, Class of 1964. He then attended NC State University till he was drafted into the United States Navy and served his country during the Vietnam War. He was stationed in Hawaii and returned home to finish his degree in Business from UNC-Wilmington.

Bobby began his career working for Jesse Spencer, CPA till 1975, then joined Industrial Sheet Metal as controller for 25 years and Trane for 5 more years. After leaving the largest family-owned business in Richmond County, he became the controller at Richmond Community College till 2011. After retirement, he joined his brother-in-law, Oz Queen, CPA till 2023. His many accounting and controller jobs made him highly knowledgeable in accounting which carried over into his own personal life. Bobby also gave back to his community by serving on the Board of Directors of The Hamlet Hospital.

Bobby was a member of First Baptist Church of Hamlet since childhood till his death. He was not only a faithful member but served as a deacon, treasurer, usher, and served on many finance committees. After his returning from his military duty, he assisted his brother, Jimmy Ritter, Assistant Pastor by chaperoning the youth to activities and being a Sunday School teacher for young boys. He met and fell in love with Beth Queen and soon married in 1975. They continued their membership and raised their son, Hilton at First Baptist Church as Beth and Bobby were always so proud. They have always felt that First Baptist Church was such a source of comfort and God's unfailing love, especially after Bobby became sick.

Bobby loved his vast collection of music and spent hours listening to it. He enjoyed watching all sports, especially golf. He loved playing golf and being a part of the Dr. Roy Peele's March Madness Tournament. In his lifetime, his most memorable moments were his two holes in one and kept that close to his heart. Being a member of the Sandrifters Club with his closest friends was a true highlight.

Bobby loved being with family and attending his reunions with the Howell cousins, especially his trip to Alaska. His seven Howell cousins were groomsmen in their wedding and they all continued to be close through the years. His devotion and love for Beth and Hilton was by far his greatest pleasure. Beth was always by his side, especially during his illness and his son spent hours getting him the best care possible. Hilton made sure he made him comfortable as his health began to decline. Bobby and Hilton enjoyed fishing, golf, and other sports. Beth and Bobby spent their most special times together at their second home at Sunset Harbor. They enjoyed eating out and even celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary in June. Having a special doctor, daughter-in-law, Rhianna who offered medical advice when needed made Bobby's illness more bearable. Bobby's grandson, Remy was such a joy and their playful time together was very special. Bobby was proud of Remy's outgoing and inquisitive nature. When Bobby became sick, sister-in-law Mary Grace was a devoted sister and caregiver. Bobby's cats, Flash and Cocomo, kept Bobby happy and entertained until the end.

Bobby is survived by his loving wife, Beth; his son, Robert Hilton Ritter, Jr. (Rhianna); his grandson, Remy Hilton Ritter; his brother, Rev. Jimmy Ritter (Martha); his sister-in-law, Mary Grace Calhoun; his brother-in-law, Oz Queen; and his nieces and nephews, and his cousins who were so special to him.

The family of Robert Ritter would like to thank the Scotland Memorial Cancer Center for their attentive care during his illness. They would also like to give thanks to Richmond County Hospice for being there, and Carolina Hearts caregiver, Daylon Jordan for the special care and bright personality he brought to Bobby at the end of his life.

A visitation will begin at 11:00am on Friday, February 6, 2026 at First Baptist Church, Hamlet, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 12:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church, 211 Charlotte Street, Hamlet, NC 28345.