Elouise Ritter – Burnes departed this world on Monday, May 25, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born September 7, 1933, in Lake City, Arkansas, to Mabel and Doc Gregory. She was a mom and grandmother to everyone she met. She loved spending her time in her garden and walking creeks and fields looking for unique rocks and arrowheads. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, canning and spending time with her loved ones. She accomplished and survived many things in her 92 years on this earth, including surviving cancer.
She was preceded in death by her parents; three husbands; her son, Robert Nichols; a grandson, Timmy Ritter; a great-grandson, Malicki Pizanowski; and all of her sisters.
Nine children survive her, Carolyn Diane St. John of Heber Springs, Arkansas, Debra Owens (Ray) of Cave City, Arkansas, Billy Ritter (Kathy) of Missouri, Tim Ritter (Metzi) of Meredosia, Illinois, Missy Mitchell (Keith) of Mt. Sterling, Illinois, David Burnes (Paula) of Willow Springs, Missouri, Mike Ritter of Sutter, Illinois, Tina Ritter of Locust Grove, Arkansas, Mindy Gilmer (Mike McFatter) of Batesville, Arkansas; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.
A graveside service will be held on September 7, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Mounds Cemetery in Timewell, Illinois, under the direction of Hendriker Funeral Home.
Arrangements are by Qualls Funeral Homes.
