I. Earl (Buddy) Ritterpusch

Irvin “Earl” Ritterpusch (Buddy) of Smithfield NC, born on October 11, 1939, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, passed away on October 10, 2025, at the age of 85, while in Hospice Care in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Earl served approximately six years in the US Army (1957-1963) and was employed for thirty years with the US Postal Service rising from a Letter Carrier to President of the Letter Carriers Union to Station Manager at multiple locations to finalize his career as Postmaster of Smithfield, North Carolina in 1993. He spent his retirement years enjoying his love of golf, a longtime member of the Cardinal Country Club in Selma, North Carolina, hunting and fishing with a true fondness for the Chesapeake Bay area in Virginia fishing for Croaker, with his friends and family. His true love was spending time with his children whenever possible.

Earl is survived by his children, son Bobby (Brenda) of York SC, daughter Donna of Nashville NC, great granddaughters Jolie and Jailyn, grandson-in-law Justin Brooks and cousin Stan Painter. Earl was predeceased in death by granddaughter Rachel Brooks, brother John Ritterpusch, cousin Charlie Painter, aunt Corine “Nanny” Painter, uncle Robert Frady, aunt Mary “Mims” Frady, grandparents Percy and Laura Cobb Lewis, mother Edna Goodheart and father Irvin John.

Earl’s love, commitment, and concern for family and friends was shown by his giving of his time and efforts whenever needed. He will truly be missed in our hearts and daily lives.

Celebration of Life and Funeral arrangements are to be determined at a later date when finalized. Anyone wishing to attend please contact Donna or Bobby.