Funeral services celebrating the life of Billy Ray Ritchie, 88, of Winnsboro, Louisiana will be held at 2:00 P.M., Wednesday, January 21, 2026, in the chapel of Mulhearn Funeral Home, Winnsboro with Rev. Rodney Radcliff officiating. Interment will follow immediately after at Ogden Cemetery, under the direction of Mulhearn Funeral Home.

The visitation will be held from 1:00 P.M. until the time of service.

Mr. Ritchie was born on November 8, 1937, in Winnsboro, Louisiana and passed away on January 18, 2026, in Monroe, Louisiana.

Billy lived a life grounded in love, loyalty, and the simple joys that made each day feel meaningful. A proud graduate of Winnsboro High School and Lamar University in Texas, he carried his education into a life defined not only by hard work, but by the way he cared for the people around him.

An avid outdoorsman, Billy felt most at home in God’s creation. He loved the quiet peace of fishing, the thrill of duck hunting, and the satisfaction of tending a garden he nurtured with patience and pride.

Billy was also a devoted New Orleans Saints fan, cheering faithfully through every season. Game days were filled with excitement, family, and the familiar comfort of shared tradition.

Above all, Billy was a family man. His children and grandchildren were the heart of his world, and he poured his love into them with steady devotion and a gentle spirit. He was the kind of father and grandfather who showed up, supported, and loved without hesitation.

Billy’s faith was the foundation of his life. A devoted Christian, he was a faithful member of Boeuf River Baptist Church, where he worshiped, served, and found community among those who shared his love for the Lord.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of sixty years, Katherine Ritchie; father, Harvey Ritchie; and mother, Luda McGraw.

Those left to honor and cherish his memory are his son, Steve Ritchie (Michelle); daughter, Karen Calhoun (Mike); grandchildren, Justin Calhoun (Misty), Megan Calhoun, Cassidy Ritchie, and Jordy Ritchie; five great grandchildren; brother, Charles “Buddy” Ritchie (Ann); as well as a host of friends and loved ones.

The pallbearers will be Steve Ritchie, Mike Calhounm, Justin Calhoun, Matt Calhoun, and Heath McMurray.

The family would like to extend immense gratitude to Bonnie Whitaker and all the staff of Ouachita Healthcare and Rehab in Monroe, Louisiana.