Stephen C. Ritchey

On Aug. 18, 1973, he married Carol Henry (Ritchey) in Altoona.

Surviving are his wife, Carol, of 53 years; daughter, Ginger (Ritchey) Cover and husband, Craig, of Altoona; son, Branden Ritchey and wife, Jacqueline, of Braden­ton, Fla.; five grandchildren: Kiersten McCracken and husband, William, of Pittsburgh; Mason Cover and wife, Samantha, of Altoona; Alyson Cagle and husband, Braiden, of Altoona; Thomas Ritchey of Sarasota, Fla.; and Jacob Ritchey of Westminster, Colo.; and great-grandson, Micah McCracken. He is also survived by his two brothers, Daren Ritchey and wife, Sally, of Burling­ton, N.C., and Randall Ritchey and wife, Diane, of Greenville, N.C.

Steve was a great father in every sense of the word. He led his family with strength, integrity and unwavering love. His Christian faith was the foundation of his life. He was strong in his convictions and took great pride in sharing the Word of God. Music was a key part of his life and became a powerful instrument in his evangelism. He made significant contributions to the church choir, the Living Christmas Tree programs and music ministries at Grace Bible Church, Westminster Presbyterian, Cornerstone Baptist, as well as across many other churches. Whether through his trumpet, his singing voice or directing and participating in special music programs, he used his musical gifts to reach so many people with the Gospel. He was a devoted member of Westminster Church for many years, serving as a deacon. Grace Bible Church held a special place in his heart, as he was a member there in his youth and young adulthood and returned to its fellowship later in life.

Steve enjoyed a lengthy career in the building supply and hardware industry before retiring, having worked for Busy Beaver, Smith Hardware and Babcock Lumber, and proudly owning and operating Ritchey True Value for many years.

Steve found great joy on the golf course and the tennis court. He loved the game of golf, the deep friendships built through the game as well as the friendly competition of tennis. Steve enjoyed telling all that he never let his children win — every point and every win had to be earned, teaching perseverance, sportsmanship and the value of hard work through his example. These times together created cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Steve lived a life of purpose, faith and love. He will be remembered as a great father, a loving grandfather, a talented musician for the Kingdom and a man who loved Jesus with all his heart. His legacy of faith, family, music and joyful service continues in everyone whose life he touched.

Friends will be received from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 22, 2026, at Grace Bible Church, Hollidaysburg; and from 11 a.m. until the memorial service at noon on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the church, with Stephen’s brother, Daren Ritchey, officiating. Interment will be held at Blair Memorial Park Cemetery, Altoona.

The family requests that donations be made to Great Commission Schools, 1100 Sixth Ave., Altoona, PA 16602, in memory of Steve.

Arrangements are by Plank, Stitt & Stevens Funeral Home, Hollidaysburg.

Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook page.