Rev. George E. Ritter

Marion The Reverend George E. Ritter, 86, went to his eternal heavenly home on Wednesday, November 18, 2009 at 12:43 A.M. at Heartland Regional Medical Center. Rev. Ritter who was known to some as Uncle Red was born July 21, 1923 in Johnston City the son of George E. & Alice A. (Shelton) Ritter. He married Reba Horton on June 23, 1946 and they have been blessed with over 63 years of marriage. He proudly served his country in the Air Force from April, 1943 until January, 1949. He began pastoring in August, 1950 serving church in Southern and North Illinois, Arkansas and Alabama. He continued until ill health forced his retirement in February, 1993. Following several months of convalescence he was able to do pulpit supply in area churches. Rev. Ritter was a member of Scottsboro Baptist church and he was the former owner of Ritters Custom Cabinets. In addition to his wife he is survived by Sister in law Audrey Ritter of Johnston City, Nephew Bruce Ritter of Johnston City and his children Denel Morris and husband Jeff of Herrin, Brian Ritter and wife Gabrielle of St. Louis, MO and Nephew - James Ritter and his wife Brenda of Johnston City and their children Jarrod Ritter and wife Cindy of Marion, Jeremy Ritter and wife Wendi of Goreville, Jennifer Pribble and husband Richard of Herrin, Joy Ritter of Herrin, Great Great Nieces and Nephews Brent, Kylie, Taylor, Zoey, Alyssa, Madison, Haley, Abigail, Kelley Jo. Rebas cousin Marvin B. Horton of Harrisburg, who has always been more like a brother to George and Reba and his children Melissa Belt and husband Brian of Harrisburg, Brad Horton and wife Kandie of Ohio Preceded by his Parents, Brother Gilbert Ritter and two infant Sisters Funeral services will be Saturday, November 21, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home with Rev. Ivan Ryan officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Lawn Cemetery in Harrisburg. Military rites will be performed by Marions VFW Post #1301, American Legion Post #147 and National Guard Flag Detail Unit. Visitation will be Friday evening from 5 8 P.M. at the funeral home. For those who prefer memorials may be made to the Scottsboro Baptist Church Building Fund. Envelopes will be available and accepted at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home, 800 North Market Street, Marion, Illinois 62959.