of Searcy, was born on September 6, 1958, in Bellflower, California, the son of Guy and Claudia Ritchie. He left this world for his heavenly home on June 4, 2024, at the age of 65.
Donnie’s childhood years were spent in Hampton, before moving to Fordyce and graduating from Fordyce High School in 1976. It was at Fordyce where he met Debbie Totty, and a relationship began that culminated in marriage on May 28, 1977.
Upon graduating from high school, Donnie entered the workforce and began a career defined by service and sales. He worked for Hol-in-One Donut Company, traveling throughout Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama to install equipment, deliver supplies, and provide customer service—traits that continued throughout his career journey. Donnie eventually owned and operated Ritchie Janitorial Company, providing janitorial services throughout Fordyce and the surrounding area. It was the janitorial business that never left Donnie. After relocating to Sheridan, he joined Port City Janitors’ Supply, beginning a 20-year journey of serving customers throughout Southeast Arkansas.
Donnie’s service extended to his community, where he coached his sons’ sports teams and served multiple terms as President of both the Sheridan Little League and Sheridan Babe Ruth. It was during his tenure as Little League president that a major renovation of the complex was completed, and the financial foundation of the organization was strengthened through the hosting of multiple tournaments. But Donnie’s greatest joy, other than coaching his sons, was to see a child experience the joy of success, many for the first time. He also served for several years on the Board of Directors for HDRS, a recovery service providing services in Pine Bluff and Sheridan, and was a member of Gideons’ International.
Donnie also was known for his service to his church. He was ordained as a Deacon by Southside Baptist Church in Fordyce, and he faithfully served in multiple churches for more than 40 years. He also taught Sunday School, often as the youngest man in the “Senior Men’s Class,” and he served on multiple committees. Each of these opportunities were fulfilled in faithfulness and humility. He was currently a member at Searcy First Baptist Church, where he was part of the “Encouragers” Sunday School Class and the Thursday Evening Men’s Bible Study.
Donnie’s greatest service was to his family. He and Debbie recently celebrated 47 years of marriage, demonstrating faithfulness and commitment. His children knew they were loved unconditionally, supported wholeheartedly, and provided for generously. Perhaps Donnie’s favorite achievement was being “P” to his grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Donnie was preceded in death by a sister, Peggy, and brothers Charles and Dale. He is survived by his wife, Debbie, of Searcy; sons and daughters-in-law Clint and Jennifer of McRae and Matt and Sirron of Mabelvale; and four grandchildren: Addison and Whitley of McRae and Caroline and Wyatt of Mabelvale. Additionally he is survived by a brother, C.A. (Kathy), of Conroe, Texas, and sisters-in-law Martha Park of Lonoke, Edith Totty of Fordyce, Marilyn Norman of Fordyce, Judy (Terry) Launius of Bearden, and Sandra Wilson of Fordyce, as well as a host of nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 9, 2024, 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm at Benton Funeral Home in Fordyce. Funeral services will be held 2:00 pm Monday at Benton FuneralHomeinFordyce with Rev. Mike White, Dr. Wade Totty, and Dr. Clint Ritchie officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Ground Cemetery in Hampton.
Serving as pallbearers will be Cole Wilson and nephews Mike Ritchie, Kyle Ritchie, Clay Totty, Zach Launius, and Jason Pinckard.
The family requests that any wishing to make lasting memorials consider Gideons’ International (gideons.org). To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net.
