Thomas Joseph Ritter

Thomas Joseph Ritter departed this world on May 5, 2026. He was born on June 19, 1954, and lived his entire life on the West Bank of Jefferson Parish, in Marrero and Jean Lafitte.

He was predeceased by his parents, Estelle Marie Bailey and John Alvin Ritter, Sr.; brothers John Alvin Ritter, Jr., and Rudolph Joseph “R.J. ‘Tex’” Ritter, Sr.; and nephews Todd David Ritter, Sr., and Benson John Ritter. Thomas is survived by sisters Melba Lee Ritter Weiss and Beverly Ann Ritter; brother John Wilfred Ritter (Gloria); nieces Nadine Ritter (Bill Ward), Gaynelle Weiss Triche (Frank), Leesa Weiss Krall (James), JoAnn Weiss Eaton (Kevin), Leslie Weiss Barber, Traci Ritter Henderson (Paul), and Alicia Ritter Breaux (Alvin); nephews R.J. Ritter, Jr. (Sheri), Gabriel C. Weiss, III (Darlene), George A. Weiss (Wanda), and Frank J. Borne, Jr. (Schlise); cousin Lynn Kimsey Mandella; a host of great nieces and nephews and many cousins; and many longtime friends.

Thomas loved fishing, cooking, and caring for his lawn, and enjoyed fresh seafood with a cold bottle of beer any time of year. He enjoyed old Western movies and television shows, having been a big fan of John Wayne, and he loved to sing along with country music. He will be best known for the stories he told, often with vivid detail and clarity (and perhaps slight embellishment). Thomas wasn’t shy about offering his opinion on any issue or topic, and he enjoyed a good debate. Nonetheless, he was always kind and caring to everyone he met, and people knew him to be generous and compassionate. He also enjoyed telling jokes and loved to make people laugh.

Above all, Thomas genuinely cared for everyone in his family; he was a devoted son, brother, and uncle. His love was steady, loyal, and enduring — expressed in countless phone calls, shared meals, and advice both requested and unsolicited. He will be missed.

After graduating from West Jefferson High School (Class of 1973), he held many occupations throughout his lifetime, many of which allowed him to see much of the United States.