Sharon Jean Christie Ritch

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Sharon Jean Christie Ritch, a beloved cornerstone of her family. Known for her love of the ocean, riding horses, her “seven-pack” of grandchildren and unwavering Christmas spirit, Sharon brought joy and warmth to all who knew her.

Sharon was born in Syracuse, NY to Charles and Marilyn Christie of Vestal, NY and grew up with her brother Tom. She lived in Endwell, NY through high school, and Vestal until the summer of 2008, when she moved south to Durham, NC to be close to her children and young grandchildren. She often returned to NY to spend time with her lifelong friend group.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years and 8th grade sweetheart Karl Ritch of Vestal NY; her children, Trever Ritch and his wife Jill Anne; Kelly Ritch and her wife Kris; Leah Wilking and her husband Jeff; and her grandchildren, Brooke Ritch, Sophia Ritch, Samuel Wilking, Ethan Ritch, Claire Ritch, Benjamin Wilking, and Charles Wilking.

Sharon's life was marked by her commitment to helping others, social work, therapeutic horseback riding, and especially family; where she made significant contributions and touched many lives.

A memorial service will be held on April 25th at 2pm at Walker’s Funeral Home, 204 N. Churton St., Hillsborough NC, where friends and family will gather to celebrate Sharon's life and share their memories. A reception will follow at The House at Gatewood, 300 US-70, Hillsborough, NC.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Sharon’s memory in ways she would have loved: swim in the ocean, giving kids ice cream, being nice to horses, and invite your family over for dinner.

Sharon Jean Christie Ritch will be deeply missed, her memory will live on in our hearts. May she rest in peace.