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September 16, 1934 – August 22, 2018

We are deeply saddened by the loss of our esteemed partner and friend James L. Ritchey.

Jim was a guiding force of the firm for decades—serving as a voice of reason, his calm demeanor, keen intellect, and readiness to lend an ear were appreciated by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Joining Williams Parker as an associate in 1962, Jim spent his entire legal career with the firm, serving for decades as a member of the management committee, first as treasurer and then as president.

Jim was a consummate real estate lawyer and mentor. His ability to absorb and decipher a complex set of facts and issues and reach a conclusion that was clear, rational, and decisive was exceptional, earning him a reputation as one of the best real estate attorneys in the state and a visionary in the title insurance industry. He was never too busy to assist his colleagues in analyzing the most challenging legal questions.

For the strength of Jim’s leadership, the integrity of his character, the clarity of his intellect, and the fullness of his devotion to the legal profession and the firm, we who were privileged to call him partner and friend are profoundly grateful.

To Jim’s wife, Shirley, and his children, Lisa and Patrick, we extend our most sincere condolences. We are thankful for the many years that Jim and Shirley dedicated to our Williams Parker family, and to our community. We honor his life and are truly grateful that he shared it with us.

More about Jim’s life and accomplishments can be read in his obituary, as published by the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.