Johnny Melford Ritter, 90, of Orrick, died Friday, April 8, 2022, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Johnny was born on Feb. 16, 1932, in Edwards, the son of Augustus and Elmyra (Christopher) Ritter.  He was united in marriage to Joan S. “Jody” Sirett Fann of Independence, on April 13, 1957; she preceded him in death on Oct. 28, 2019.

Survivors include six children, Allan (Sandra) Fann of Fort Worth, TX, Chuck (Sandy) Fann of Hutchinson, KS, Joanne (Danny) Helms of Tipton, John (Nancy) Ritter of Richmond, Brian (Rhonda) Ritter of Orrick, and Steve (Johnna) Ritter of Excelsior Springs; 11 grandchildren, Bo (Shanna) Helms, Jamie (Mike) Hurtgen, Drew Helms, Matthew Fann, David (Naomi) Fann, Patrick Fann, Shannon (Adam) Lindberg, Kevin (Kristina) Fann, Christina (Brett) McClure, Danielle Ritter, and Steven Ritter; 14 great-grandchildren; three brothers, Robert Ritter, Wilbur Ritter and Carl Ritter; and one sister Zelma Cranfield.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; grandson, David Ryan Ritter; two brothers, Clarence Ritter and James Ritter; and one sister, Viva Ziesch.

Johnny was reared and educated in the area of his birth.  He has lived on his current farm since 1966. After receiving his education, he enlisted in the Korean War and proudly served his county in the United States Navy from 1952 to 1954, serving on the destroyer, USS Shelton DD-790.  While serving his country on the USS Shelton he lost a finger loading shells during a battle. After returning from the war, he began his career as a carpenter and in farming. He owned and operated Johnny Ritter Construction. Johnny mostly raised cattle on his farm. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and his family.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 13, 2022, which would have been their 65th Wedding Anniversary, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m., with services to follow at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow services at the funeral home in the Missouri State Veteran’s Cemetery, Higginsville with full Military Honors provided by the United States Navy and the Ray County Veterans.  Please share your memories of Johnny by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.