James Edly Ritter II (Ickie), 78, passed away Wednesday, March 23, 2016 at his home in Fort Myers, Florida. James was born March 18, 1938 to James and Allene (Bersch) Ritter in Fork Union, one of three siblings, Mary Katherine Layne, and Allen Ritter. He graduated from Buckingham County High School.

James served in the Army and served during the Vietnam war era. He received recognition for rifle marksman and sharpshooter. He served with honor until November 22, 1963.

After a long career, James retired and spent time in Florida, which soon became a second home. James loved to spend time with his family and friends, golf, and gardening. He was actively involved in the Moose Lodge and other various veteran organizations during his retirement in Florida.

James is survived by his two sons, William Brian Ritter (Amy Ritter) and Christian Townsend Ritter; granddaughter, Savannah Jane Ritter; sister, Mary Katherine Layne; and numerous nieces and nephews. James also had an extended family that he stayed very close within the Buckingham community. This included Lois Moss Jamerson and Michele Moss Watts.  James was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Allen Ritter, and his grandson, James Spencer Nolan Ritter.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 2 at Arvon Baptist Church at 2 p.m. with Pastor Troy Hickman officiating. A visitation will precede the services at 1 p.m. Burial will follow at the family cemetery. Flowers may be sent but we ask donations to the Make a Wish Foundation, a charity that has become very special to the Ritter family in recent years.

Dunkum Funeral Home, Dillwyn, is in charge of arrangements. www.dunkumfuneralhome.com