Estelle Ritter - Obituary

stelle, born Estelle Frances Patten on March 19, 1916 in Washington, DC, was a member of the Friendly/Fort Washington/Southern Prince George's community for most of her life. Estelle's father (William Patten), mother (Florence Reynolds Patten), sister (Evelyn Gray, Lily Mae Valentine and Mary Smith), and first husband (Robert Wiley Thorne) and second husband (Arthur R. Ritter), for whom she was divorced, are all deceased. Estelle is survived by her god son Michael Thorne, the son of Emmett and Jo Thorne., and many extended family members and friends. Estelle attended the Oxon Hill Consolidated School, Oxon Hill, MD, were she completed the eleventh grade, the highest grade at that time. Estelle worked in the Broad Creek country store and retired after working for decades as a sales associate for Woodword & Lothrop Department Store. As a long time member of the Fort Washington/Providence Methodist Church family, she enjoyed the church's religious services as well as the numerous fellowship activities. Although she was perceived as a quiet, private individual, Estelle was always ready to go, appreciating opportunities to spend time with family and friends. She especially liked the water and her time on the Chesapeake Bay shore, Maryland blue crabs were always on her plate when available. In her later years a special joy for Estelle was the summer vegetable garden to the rear of her home. Fresh tomatoes were cherished treats and were carefully watched over on the vine. She was even known to had particular tomatoes brought to her when ripe. On Sunday, October 6, 2013 passed away at her residence in Ft. Washington, MD; the beloved wife of the late Robert W. Thorne and Arthur R. Ritter. She is survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to Estelle's Life Celebration at the GEORGE P. KALAS FUNERAL HOME, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD on Thursday, October 10 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8pm and again on Friday, October 11 from 10am until time of service at 11am at Providence-Fort Washington United Methodist Church, 10610 Old Fort Rd., Fort Washington, MD 20744. Interment Cedar Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the church.