ANNISQUAM: Barbara G. Ritchie, 87, wife of the late David A. Ritchie II, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family.
Born on December 11, 1927 in Baltimore, MD, she was the daughter of the late Capt. Douglas V. Gladding, USN Ret. and Martha West Gladding. Growing up as a Navy Junior, allowed Barbara the opportunity to live all over the world and experience many cultures. She graduated from Girls Latin School in Washington, DC and was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Regarded as a truly lovely lady who epitomized style and grace, her generous heart and charitable nature were just a few of her wonderful qualities. Barbara took great pride in her home and her flare for decorating never ceased to impress. Her creative talent was notably exemplified by her ability to take any interior space and create a beautiful masterpiece. She had a great sense of humor and was always a good sport. Often times called Bobbie for short, she was known as Mummy or Grammy, not just by her family, but their friends as well. Nicknames included: Broadway Barb, H.Q., Mad Mummy and sometimes even Martha. Her love for her family and animals was immeasurable.
She is survived by her children, Sandy Ritchie and his wife, Laura Ritchie, Doug Ritchie and his wife Tracey Ritchie and Heather Ritchie and her husband, Jim Aparo; her grandchildren Sarah-West Ritchie, Amanda Grissom and her husband, Jesse, Alex Ritchie, Ryder Ritchie, Adam Desmond, Cody Desmond and Sebastian Aparo and her beloved bow-wow “Stanley.” Many thanks go out to Carla Grooms, Donna Small, Annie Dale, Gail McCarthy, Polly Hickey, Diane Ambrose, Pam Arnold and Michelle Elwell.
Her services will be privately held at the convenience of the family. Expressions of sympathy may be made in her memory to Cape Ann Animal Aid, 4 Paws Lane, Gloucester, MA 01930.