Bridgeport Mourns the Loss of Opal Marie Ritts
Bridgeport, OH – The Bridgeport community is remembering Opal Marie Ritts, 62, who passed away peacefully on November 1, 2025, at the Country Club Retirement Center. Born on July 22, 1963, in Bellaire, Ohio, Opal dedicated her life to service, compassion, and the care of others, leaving a lasting impact on her family, friends, and community.
Opal’s life was marked by devotion to her faith, her career, and her many passions. A dedicated member of Our Lady of Lebanon Church, she actively participated in parish life and was admired for her steadfast commitment to her spiritual community. Her career at Rest Care spanned more than 40 years, during which she became known for her professionalism, warmth, and unwavering dedication to helping others. Colleagues often described Opal as a dependable and empathetic presence, someone whose guidance and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she worked with.
Beyond her professional and spiritual commitments, Opal’s compassionate spirit extended to volunteer work and community involvement. She was a proud supporter and volunteer for The Special Olympics, where she shared her time, energy, and encouragement with participants, inspiring joy and confidence in countless athletes. Opal’s love for animals was another defining aspect of her life, and she found happiness in nurturing and caring for pets.
Opal is survived by her loving husband, John N. Ritts, her sister, Barbara Russell, and numerous nieces and nephews who remember her as a caring, nurturing, and joyful presence in their lives. Friends and family recall her laughter, her generosity, and the quiet ways in which she made the world a better place, whether through small acts of kindness or her tireless volunteer work.
As the community grieves her loss, stories and memories of Opal highlight a life devoted to love, service, and compassion. Her contributions—both personal and professional—have left a lasting imprint on those who knew her. From her decades of dedication at Rest Care to her volunteer efforts and loving family relationships, Opal’s legacy is one of selflessness, warmth, and care.
Opal Marie Ritts will be remembered as a woman who gave fully of herself, whose life touched many, and whose spirit will continue to inspire her family, friends, and the broader Bridgeport community. Her memory serves as a reminder of the enduring power of compassion, devotion, and love.
Rest in peace, Opal Marie Ritts. Your life of service, kindness, and dedication will never be forgotten.
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