James “Jim” Ritter, 83, a lifelong resident of Monticello, Fla., passed away on March 11, 2021, after a brief illness. He was born June 29, 1937, in the community of Nash, Fla., to Milton and Nettie Ritter. Jim married his wife, Martha, Aug. 7, 1959.
He enjoyed his tractors and the outdoors—hunting and fishing—but sought the most joy in gardening. He treasured planting seeds, watching them grow and sharing with his friend and family. He worked for the Ford Tractor Company and later the Jefferson County School Board and Aucilla Christian Academy, where he retired as a diesel mechanic.
He is survived by his daughters, Annette Holland (Jimmy), Deborah Stotz (Gary) and Leslie Rabon (Will); grandchildren, Jennifer Brantley (Eric), Will McPhail, Kevin Stotz, Jimmy Holland, III, and Ashley McCollum (Matt); great-grandchildren Hunter, Mason and Colton Brantley; sister, Annie Bell Wickham; a very special nephew, Scott Rodgers, and a host of nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his wife of 61 years, Martha; his father and mother, Milton and Nettie Ritter; grandchild, Michael, and brother-in-law, Richard Wickman.
He was a faithful member of the Central Church of Christ in Monticello. For those wishing to make memorial contributions, please do so to the Central Church of Christ.
A Graveside service will be held at Sardis Cemetery in Monticello at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 17, 2021 with a visitation one hour before the service at the cemetery. Beggs Funeral Home, Monticello is handling the arrangements.