Dates
Robert Douglas (Doug) Ritchie, 78 years young, went to live in heaven with Jesus on Friday, May 17, 2024. He was born August 11, 1945 in Dickson, Tennessee, to Rev. Robert B. and Isabell Porch Ritchie. When he was 5 years old his father accepted a pastorate at First Baptist Church in Sterling City where Doug started school. When his father began teaching sixth grade at Santa Rita Elementary in San Angelo, they moved to the big city and Doug attended Santa Rita, Lee Junior High, and graduated from San Angelo Central High School in 1963.
When he was a small child his parents bought him a toy drum and his life's work took root. He was passionate about music and was a proud member of the Lee Rebel Band and the Central Bobcat Band. Deciding on a career in band directing, he attended Baylor University, Tennessee Tech University, and ultimately finished his degree at Angelo State University in 1982.
In the meantime he met his soulmate, Linda Hahn Adkinson, in music theory class at ASU. It would be hard to find a couple more in sync with all facets of life. They became partners in 1980 and worked together for 44 years talking, planning, executing and sharing every aspect of life and career. Doug held positions at Edison Junior High (twice), Mason High School, Floresville ISD, Poteet ISD, Cornerstone Christian School, Culberson County ISD in Van Horn, Grandfalls-Royalty ISD, Belaire Elementary in San Angelo, Rotan ISD and Christoval ISD. A debilitating stroke ended his career in 2011.
Retirement brought a whole new life of travel, enjoying family, and researching fields of knowledge for which he had always been curious but never had time to explore. A terrible fall changed everything and he spent his final months at Regency House in San Angelo.
Preceding him to heaven were his parents and his sister, Jean Ritchie Martin. He is survived by his wife, Linda; daughter Regina Washington and husband James; son Steven Ritchie and wife Krystal; six grandchildren, Kathryn Hofschuch and husband Michael, Harley Covert, James Washington III, Brandon Washington, Rydon Ritchie, and Rynleigh Ritchie; and one great granddaughter, Penelope Hofschuch.
And to the literally hundreds of former students who blessed his life over the years, the family thanks you for allowing him the opportunity to open your eyes to the world of music and beyond. He loved you all.
No services are planned. Memorials by be made to the charity or cause of your choosing. Family and friends may sign the online register book at www.johnsons-funeralhome.com.