James J. Ritter, age 89, passed away peacefully at home on October 23, 2023. He was born in Allentown, PA to Olen and Lloyd Ritter and grew up in Belvidere, NJ. James met his wife, Emily, at Hobart and William Smith Colleges. They married in 1960 and celebrated their 62nd anniversary in March 2022. Emily predeceased James in December 2022.
James served in the Navy after he graduated from college. He served on both coasts during his ten years of active duty, ending in California as part of Underwater Demolition Team 22. James continued in the Navy Reserves for many years, retiring as a Commander. After active duty, he and Emily settled permanently in Greenville, RI in 1970, where they raised their three children.
James worked as a political science professor for Rhode Island College and Roger Williams University. He also served on the board of the Greenville Public Library. James loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, reading the newspaper, doing DIY projects, swimming in the ocean at Horseneck Beach in Westport MA, and being a part of his local community, in particular, he enjoyed the budget process.
James will be deeply missed by his family, especially his three children, Juliet, Jennifer, and Eric, his six grandchildren, Faye, Leah, Sophie, Henry, Ian, and Claire, and his dog, Mason.