Jessie L. Ritchey Jr., 68

Jessie L. Ritchey Jr., 68 of Ashland passed away Sunday afternoon, March 10, 2024, in his home at the Martin House.

He was born on July 5, 1955, in Ashland, the son of the late Jessie L. and Joan B. (nee Williams) Ritchey Sr.

Jessie graduated from Ashland High School, Class of 1973.

Always a hard worker throughout his life, he was very handy and loved fixing things.

He loved fishing, riding his bicycle, watching John Wayne Western’s, but most of all spending time with his grandchildren.

Jessie was a member of Calvary Baptist Church. He was constantly joking and such a loving person. It was Jessie’s true personality that earned him the title, Mr. Ritchey, Newman Elementary School's beloved volunteer.

He is survived by his loving son, Jesse W. (Alyssia) Ritchey of Mansfield; his best friend, Barbara Wheeler of Ashland; two previous spouses, Nellie Ritchey and Jennifer Ritchey of Mansfield; six grandchildren, Jacob R., Hailey R., Zoe R., Brycen M, and Dru C., and Chase C.; two great grandchildren, Ayla and Marianna; his stepfather, Norman Lake; and a brother, George (Cathy) Ritchey of Ashland.

In addition to his parents, Jessie is preceded in death by one grandson, Kaden Ritchey who passed away on September 5, 2009.

A time of visitation will be held on Saturday, March 16, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Harry Strachan presiding in the Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home, 313 Center Street, Ashland, Ohio 44805 to help defray expenses.

For those unable to attend, online condolences may be shared on the funeral home’s website at denbowfh.com.

Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home & Crematory is handling the arrangements.