Obituary of Leona J. Ritchie

Leona J. Ritchie, entered into eternal rest on Monday, April 22, 2024, at the age of 74. Born on August 25, 1949, in Manhattan, New York, she was the daughter of the late Alexander and Sophie (Danilison) Witkowski.
Leona shared over five decades of love and companionship with her devoted husband, Deacon Frederick V. Ritchie. Together, they built a loving family and created cherished memories. Beloved mother of Barbara A. Staiti (Neil) and Christopher A. Ritchie (Kelly), and proud grandmother of Elizabeth, Samantha, Paul, Thorin, and Kaitlyn.
Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, as evidenced by her devout dedication to the Catholic Church. For over 40 years, Leona committed herself to serving the Brooklyn Diocese, first at St. Mark’s Roman Catholic Church and later at St. Columba Roman Catholic Church. Her guidance and wisdom were invaluable as she served as a trusted advisor to the past five pastors at St. Columba RC Church.
Leona's kindness, warmth, care, and compassion touched the lives of many, and her love extended beyond human relationships to encompass her affection for animals.
 

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects and honor Leona's life during the repose on Monday, April 29, from 2 to 5 PM and 7 to 9 PM at St. Columba R.C. Church, 2245 Kimball Street, Brooklyn, New York.
A Mass of Christian burial will take place at 9:30 AM on Tuesday, April 30, also at St. Columba R.C. Church, officiated by Fr. Timothy Lambert.
Following the Mass, Leona will be laid to rest at St. Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Leona’s memory to St. Columba R.C. Church, 2245 Kimball Street, Brooklyn, New York, further honoring her lifelong commitment to faith and community.

Leona's legacy of love, faith, and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and community. May she rest in eternal peace.