Susan Smith Ritter

SUSAN SMITH RITTER Susan Smith Ritter passed away on July 18, 2012 at VNA Hospice House in Vero Beach, Florida, her hometown, following a three year illness. Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Delores (Cookie) Smith and Elson R. (Chick) Smith. She was a dedicated mother and grandmother to her son Todd Marchant and her two special grandsons, Ritter Smith Marchant and Tanner Brooks Marchant, and daughter-in-law, Deana Steelman Marchant. She is survived by her brother, Elson R. (Ray) Smith, Jr., his wife Beth, one nephew, Elson R. (Trey) Smith, lll, his wife Whitney, one niece, Maury Smith Spinelli, and her dear friend, Deana's mother, Diane Steelman. Susan grew up in her beloved Vero Beach and graduated from Vero Beach High School Class of 1961 where she was a member of the Dolphinettes and a cheerleader. She attended Marjorie Webster College in Washington, D.C. and the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi, where she was a member of Kappa Delta sorority. Susan spent the first part of her married life in Orange Park, Florida with her husband, Frank Marchant. Returning to Vero Beach briefly, she then lived for 21 years in Winter Park, Florida, after meeting and marrying Dr. Edward Ritter. She was an excellent tennis player and a member of the Winter Park Racquet Club. She was also a member of the Interlachen Club. She returned to her hometown, Vero Beach, in 1992. She resided at John's Island and was a member of the John's Island Club. In 1993, she and her daughter-in-law, Deana Marchant, opened Sassy Boutique. She enjoyed going on fun buying trips to New York. She also had a great love of the theatre. She enjoyed traveling the world with her mother and close friends. She loved bridge and became a Life Master in June 2011. Susan had an amazing energy for people and life. She had a great sense of humor. She loved to laugh, dance, and spend time with family and friends. She was generous and loving and blessed to have a wonderful life. It was a life lived with style and grace until the end. The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to all of those who have supported them and Susan during this time. There will be a memorial service on Saturday, July 21, 2012 at 1 PM at the Community Church of Vero Beach. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: The Community Church of Vero Beach, 1903 23rd Street, Vero Beach, 32960, the VNA Hospice House, 1111 36th Street, Vero Beach, 32960, or the Indian River Chapter of the American Cancer Society, 3375 20th Street, Vero Beach, 32960. Paid Obituary