Tuesday, August 11, 2026 9:06 am

Gary Walter Ritchie, 78, of Shelby, North Carolina, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He was born in Valdese, North Carolina, on August 9, 1947.

Gary was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, veteran, craftsman, and friend. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Linda Moody Ritchie; his daughters, Amber Ritchie Rickertsen and her husband, Seth, and Pamela Ritchie; and his beloved grandchildren, Anson and Ollie Splain, whom he adored. He is also survived by his brother and best friend, David Ritchie of Hickory, NC, his wife Mary, their daughters Suzanne and Teresa and their families.

Gary proudly served his country as an Air Force veteran of the Vietnam War, spending two years stationed in Thailand. Following his military service, he built a successful career in accounting, owning and operating his accounting firm in Shelby for 30 years before retiring in 2010.

Retirement, however, did not mean slowing down. Gary became a professional woodworker, co-owning Turning Tree Workshop, putting his considerable skill, patience, and love of working with his hands into his craft. He loved making things and problem solving--and he took particular pride in the fact that, despite a lifetime of close calls, he managed to make it to the end with all ten fingers intact.

Gary loved his family above all else. He also enjoyed poker, western movies, adventures with grandkids, and a good laugh. He was generous, funny, and always willing to lend a hand. His humor, craftsmanship, and unmistakable presence will be deeply missed by those who knew him.

To celebrate the life of Gary, a visitation will be held from 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Friday, August 14, 2026 at Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Life Enrichment Center 110 Life Enrichment Blvd, Shelby, NC 28150, Art Space Charter School 2030 US-70, Swannanoa, NC 28778, Burke Arts Council 506 S Sterling St, Morganton, NC 28655.