Betty Nelson Ritch

Betty Nelson Ritch passed into the loving arms of Jesus on Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at Novant Health Medical Center Matthews, after weeks of illness.  

She was born on February 2, 1938, in Matthews, NC and was the daughter of the late Clyde and Wilma Pressley Nelson. Betty lived her entire life in the Matthews, NC area and attended Matthews School and East Mecklenburg High School.  Betty was known for her love of gardening and delighted in sharing her talents, along with her "green thumb”, with others.  The "Ritch Retirement Center" was the focal point of many family functions through the years and was where everyone usually congregated, weather permitting.  Betty enjoyed decorating her home and making it the source of many holiday gatherings and family get-togethers.  She loved her family and always welcomed everyone to her home. Betty enjoyed years of antiquing and auctions with her friends and family members.  She was an avid seamstress and enjoyed making items for others.  To the surprise of many, Betty played the piano and organ "by ear" for everyone's enjoyment .  Her interests and talents were many and her love for others was immeasurable.  

Betty is survived by her husband of 68 years, Tommy Lee Ritch; three children, Pamela Ritch Hayes, James Scott Ritch, and Tracey Ritch Drye; four grandchildren,  Austin Lee Ritch, Kasey Hayes Champ, Julia Caroline Drye and Jackson Gene Drye.  She is also survived by one sister, Lynn Nelson Hennis, two nephews, cousins and other family friends.   

 A memorial service will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday, December 10, 2022 at Gaskin Funeral Services, 14617 Lawyers Rd Matthews, NC. A graveside service will immediately follow. The family will receive friends, following the graveside, at the family home, 13909 Idlewild Road, Matthews, NC.

 The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses on the Fifth Floor Critical Care Unit at Novant Health Medical Center Matthews for their weeks of service and quality care.