Jerald Ritter

Graveside services for Jerald Ritter, age 90, of Blackgum, Oklahoma, will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at Box Cemetery in Vian, Oklahoma, under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.

Jerald was born on March 30, 1935, in the Box Community of Sequoyah County, Oklahoma, to Ethel (McFarland) Ritter and Albert Ritter. He passed away peacefully at his home in Blackgum, surrounded by his loving family on April 27, 2025.

A devoted husband, Jerald married the love of his life, Lola (Booker) Ritter, on October 18, 1956, in Stigler, Oklahoma. He was a talented musician known for his skills on the fiddle, guitar, and mandolin, as well as being a passionate vocalist and songwriter. Throughout his life, he performed with various country and western bands, notably the Ritter Family Band, where he cherished making music alongside his siblings and children. Jerald's talents earned him a place in the hall of fame for fiddlers, and he performed for many years in Branson, Missouri. In addition to music, he enjoyed hobbies such as woodworking, painting, and gardening.

Jerald is survived by his wife, Lola, of the home; son, Steve Ritter and Alisa Simmons of McKinney, TX; daughter, Jeri Ritter and Gaylene Weideman of Vian, OK; and bonus daughter, Wanda Harris and Kenneth of Muldrow, OK, along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; seven brothers, Herman, Lovely, Merel, T.J., Billy, Glyn, and Lyn; and two sisters, Wilma Elbon and Ruby Mickey.

Jerald Ritter leaves behind a rich legacy of love, music, and family that will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.