Mary Lee (Kelton) Ritchie passed away peacefully at her home on Lopez Island, on March 19, 2026. Mary was 99 years old and left behind a legacy of quiet strength, generosity, and unwavering kindness that shaped generations.

Mary was born on May 13, 1926, in Tacoma, Washington, to Valeria and Elam (Bob) Kelton. She grew up alongside her siblings Bobby, Bill, and Iris on Orcas Island, a place that remained forever part of who she was. Even after building a life elsewhere, she was, at heart, always an "Orcasian," as her husband Romayne would teasingly remind her throughout their marriage.

As a young woman during World War II, Mary embodied resilience and service early on, selling war bonds as a teenager on Orcas Island. That sense of duty and care for others would define the rest of her life.

In 1947, she married the love of her life, Romayne Ritchie. They shared more than 60 years of marriage before his passing in 2008. Together, they built a life rooted in family, hard work, and community, spending most of their years on Lopez Island, with a brief chapter running a dairy farm in Clipper, WA. No matter where life took them, Mary had a gift for making something out of nothing, creating a warm and welcoming home through every season.

Mary raised her children—Maribelle, Norine, Barbara, and Rex—with steady love, resilience, and an open heart. Her home was never just for her family; it was a place where anyone who walked through the door was met with a fresh pot of coffee, something sweet on the table, and often an extra plate set without question. She gave freely of what she had, no matter how simple, and made everyone feel like they belonged.

An avid gardener, Mary found joy in nurturing life, whether in her garden or in the people around her. She was also an incredible seamstress and crocheter, and many were fortunate to receive her beautiful work, each piece made with care and intention. She was known as "Gram" not only to her ten grandchildren but to countless others who were welcomed into her circle.

Her care extended far beyond her immediate family, touching neighbors, friends, and anyone in need. She spent endless hours serving her community, including many years dedicated to the Lopez Union Cemetery Association and her involvement with the San Juan County Fair Board. In recognition of her lifelong service and impact, Mary was honored with both the Lopez Island Spirit Award and the San Juan County Citizen of the Year Award. True to who she was, she never sought recognition, only the opportunity to help.

Mary had a rare and remarkable way of moving through the world. She never spoke poorly of others and could always find something good in every situation. Even through hardship, loss, and the many changes of a long life, she remained steady, kind, and deeply grateful.

She was preceded in death by her husband Romayne; her parents; her siblings; her son-in-law Mori; and, in time, all of her closest lifelong friends. In many ways, she became the keeper of their memories, carrying their stories forward with love.

Mary is survived by her children Maribelle, Norine, Barbara (& KC), and Rex (& Dawn); her ten grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews, all of whom carry forward her legacy of kindness, resilience, and quiet generosity.

Mary's life was not defined by grand titles or recognition, but by the countless small, meaningful ways she showed up for others every single day. She taught those around her that love is found in simple acts: sharing a meal, tending a garden, offering a kind word, or opening your door without hesitation.

She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always felt in the warmth of a kitchen, the bloom of a garden, and in the crocheted Christmas ornaments that will hang for years to come, along with the kindness passed from one generation to the next.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Lopez Union Cemetery Association in honor of Mary's years of service and dedication to her community.

To share memories of Mary, please visit www.evanschapel.com/obituary/mary-ritchie