Joan Kathleen Ritz left this life September 5, 2023. She couldn’t believe she was going to turn 81, so she didn’t. She left us eight days earlier.

Joan was the eldest of two children born to Angela and John Zahn of West New York, New Jersey. She met Ray Ritz and married him on October 23, 1959. They would create a family of five by the time Joan was 20.

In addition to being a wife and mother, Joan was Ray’s bookkeeper through their various businesses, from R & G Tire Service to J K Ritz Cleaning Services.

Joan was also a self-taught artist who drew, painted, crocheted, sculpted, and made jewelry. She always loved the beauty of gemstones, yet she was the loveliest and most priceless gem of all.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ray; and her son, Raymond (whom she refused to call “Lumpy” although everyone else did.); her parents; her brother, John Zahn Jr.; and many fur- and feathered-kids.

Joan is survived by her son, Tom Ritz, and his fiancé Tina Taylor; her daughter, Toni Ritz; three grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and her fur-kid, Chinky.

No services will be held per Joan’s wishes. Just think of her the next time you see something sparkle. To send condolences please visit stewartmurphyfh.com.