Mr. Eric Michael Ritchie, 49, passed away Monday, December 29, 2025, at UNC Health Blue Ridge in Morganton.

A graveside service is scheduled for 3:30 pm Thursday, January 1, 2026, at Greenlawn Cemetery. Rev. David Franks will officiate. The family will receive friends from 1 to 3:00 pm at Lady's Funeral Home.

Eric was born April 6, 1976 in Concord. He was a son of Gary Alan Ritchie and Sylvia Bass Ritchie. He enjoyed life and loved the people at J. Iverson Riddle.

In addition to his parents, Eric is survived by his sister, Tammy Platts and husband Will of Cary; brother, Alan Ritchie and wife Brittany of China Grove; and five nieces and nephews, Crew Ritchie, Cash Ritchie, Olive Ritchie, Abby Platts and Allison Platts.

Memorials may be sent to First Reformed Church, 210 North Central Avenue, Landis, NC 28088.

The family would like to thank the staff of J. Iverson Riddle for the love, care and support given to Eric throughout the years. They would also like to thank the doctors, nurses and support staff at UNC Health Blue Ridge for all of their care during Eric's final days.