Jillian N. Ritchie

Jillian N. Ritchie, age 60, passed away peacefully at her home in Viroqua, Wisconsin, on February 25, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with breast cancer.

Born April 24, 1965, in Seattle, Washington, to David and Juliet Steenson, Jillian grew up with a deep love of language and learning. She married Paul Ritchie on December 28, 1985, in Madison, Wisconsin. In 2006, they welcomed their daughter, Evie, who became the greatest joy of their lives.

A gifted linguist and passionate educator, Jillian devoted her career to teaching and leadership. She began in New Jersey at St. Joseph’s of Metuchen, later teaching in Cranford and at Scotch Plains–Fanwood High School. In 2002, she joined North Hunterdon High School, leaving a lasting mark on students and colleagues.

Jillian taught German, French, Spanish, and Chinese, inspiring both linguistic skill and cultural curiosity. Beyond the classroom, she served the North Hunterdon-Voorhees Education Association in many roles, most notably as union President, where she was a tireless advocate for fellow educators.

In later years, Jillian served as World Language and ESL Supervisor and later Director of Curriculum. She championed innovative teaching practices and strengthened programs that benefited thousands of students.

Jillian retired in 2019, and she and her family relocated to Viroqua, Wisconsin, to be closer to extended family. True to her nature, she quickly immersed herself in the Driftless community, volunteering and teaching foreign language classes at Youth Initiative, where Evie attended high school. Jillian was a passionately engaged leader within the Vernon County Democratic Party and Vernon Indivisible. She also cherished the companionship of her knitting group, Ewetopia, where friendships were stitched as carefully as the yarn in her hands.

Jillian is survived by her beloved daughter, Evie Ritchie; her mother, Juliet Gerrish; her sister, Jodi Slaby and brother-in-law Dan Slaby; and her sister, Beth Evans. She is also survived by many cherished nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Ritchie, and her father, David Steenson.

The family expresses deep gratitude to the many friends and community members who provided meals, transportation, dog walking, and countless acts of kindness in recent months. A special thank you to her dearest friend, Leslie Schiller, and to the hospice team for the extraordinary care and compassion shown to Jillian in her final days.

Family will be holding a celebration of Jillian’s life at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Viroqua on Saturday, April 18, 2026. Visitation will take place from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Libby Howe presiding. Lunch will follow as family and friends gather to share memories.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are appreciated to Youth Initiative High School, St. Croix Hospice, and Driftless Humane Society.

Roth Family Cremation Center and Funeral Services is assisting the family.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.