Carole S. Ritter, age 86, of Salem, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese, Illinois.
She was born on August 28, 1939, in Salem, the daughter of Arthur and Iola M. (Bryant) LaRue. Carole married Morris Ritter, on July 8, 1961, and he preceded her in death on September 27, 1999.
Survivors include her brother, Terry LaRue of Salem; her son, Mike Ritter and wife Julie of Danville; sister-in-law, Sharon LaRue and family; her cousins, Denny Bryant of Fort Pierce, FL, Brenda Petta of River Falls, WI, Lou Bryant of Salem, Andy Sadowski of TX, and Gail Bennett of WI; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and her brother, William LaRue.
Carole retired after nearly 40 years of employment with Illinois Power/Ameren, where she worked as a clerk and in customer service. She was a faithful and active member of Emmanuel Baptist Church. Carole enjoyed crafting, playing cards, and hosting gatherings for family and friends. She also volunteered as a Pink Lady at the hospital, where she enjoyed serving others and making lasting friendships.
Funeral Services for Carole S. Ritter will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem, with Mike Blackford officiating. Interment will follow at East Lawn Cemetery in Salem. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions can be made to Emmanuel Baptist Church and will be accepted at the funeral home. Crouse Funeral Home in Salem is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.CrouseFH.com
