Sara Evelyine Smith Ritch

Sara Evelyine Smith Ritch, 95, of Concord, peacefully passed away in her home, surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

Sara was born December 22, 1929 in Cabarrus County to the late Allen Elmer Smith and the late Ida Marie Harris Smith. She was also preceded in death by husband, James Madison Ritch, Jr.; and siblings, Louise Smith, Beulah Williamson, Claude Smith, Dewey Smith, Arlo "Buck" Smith, Everette Smith, and Rev. Dick Smith.

Sara spent much of her career at Cannon Mills, where she worked in the weave room at Plant 6. Known for her dedication and steady hands, she took pride in her work and the friendships she formed there. After retirement, she continued to embody the same hardworking spirit in everything she did.

Sara was a member of First Foursquare Church in Concord and past member of Faith Covenant Church in Concord.

A woman of simple joys and enduring grace, Sara loved sewing, cooking, sharing stories with her children and grandchildren, spending afternoons at the lake and relaxing with a good western movie. Her quiet wisdom, generous heart, and warm presence will be missed deeply by all who knew her.

Survivors include daughter, Teresa (Rev. Steve Scarboro) Scarboro of Concord; son, James M. Ritch, III of Gold Hill; son, Wayne Ritch of Troy; 5 grandchildren, Justin, Jordan, Travis, Summer and Olivia; 18 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm - 1:45 pm, Friday, May 2, 2025 at Hartsell Funeral Home of Concord. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm in the funeral home chapel, officiated by Rev. Arlo Smith Jr. and Rev. Steve Scarboro. Burial will follow at Carolina Memorial Park, Kannapolis.

Memorial donations may be made to Atrium Health Hospice & Palliative Care Cabarrus or to your local hospice.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Concord is serving the Ritch family.