Valley Ann Ritch closed her eyes Sunday morning, January 8, 2023, in the arms of her husband, John Wyley Ritch Sr., as he told her that he loved her, and she opened her eyes in the arms of Jesus. Ann was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, aunt, and friend. She raised two children and two grandchildren, whom she loved with all of her heart. Ann worked many years as a librarian and throughly enjoyed storytime with children in the afternoons. She was so animated when she read to them, bringing the characters to life, and she developed a love for reading in so many who came to see her at the library. Ann was also a faithful member of Shiloh Baptist Church in Fort White, FL. She was instrumental in suggesting, overseeing, and raising money for major projects at the church, including the restoration of the steeple, the purchase of a grand piano, and the current remodel of the church kitchen, which is desperately needed. Ann was, in her own words, "A good cook". We thought she was a GREAT cook and Sunday afternoons at Ann's table were a treat. We loved to brag on her food, and still will, when we prepare some of her recipes. Especially her fried shrimp!  Ann loved her family, her church, cooking for people, reading, and her gorgeous roses. We miss her already.

Mrs. Ritch was preceded in death by her parents, Albert Dewey King and Nellie Ruth King; three sisters, Jewell Yeargin, Margaret Ann Hollingsworth, and Teresa Edwards; and one granddaughter, Molly Ann Ritch.

Survivors include her husband of 54 years, Wyley Ritch Sr., Fort White; her son, Wyley Ritch Jr. (Amy), Gainesville; her daughter, Holly Rochelle Ritch, Fort White; two brothers, Dicky King (Heidi) and Carl King (Debbie) all of Fort White; one brother in law, Troy Hollingsworth, Fort White; three grandchildren, Shelby Austin DuBose, Fort White, John Elliott Ritch, Fort White and John Wyley "Trey" Ritch, III, Gainesville; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Valley Ann Ritch will be conducted on Thursday, January 12, 2023 at 3:00 PM at Shiloh Baptist Church in Fort White with Pastor Earl Tuten officiating.  Interment will follow in the church cemetery.  A time of visitation with the family will be one hour prior to the service at the church from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Shiloh Baptist Church "Kitchen Fund" .