TULSA, Oklahoma — Today, a gathering of family, friends, and community members took place to commemorate the life of Cassidy Ritchie, a 39-year-old woman discovered deceased in the rear of her SUV last week.
The area near 11th and Memorial was awash in shades of pink and purple, symbolizing Ritchie’s fondness for pink and advocating for awareness of domestic violence represented by the color purple.
Ritchie’s cousin fondly recalled, “She cherished laughter, her family, and that is how we will forever hold her in our hearts.”
Prior to the formal ceremony, attendees engaged in 30 minutes of mingling, exchanging memories and anecdotes about their experiences with Ritchie.
Melodic tributes were sung in Ritchie’s honor during the ceremony, while family and friends reminisced about the moments shared with her that remain cherished in their memories.
Reflecting on the event, Ritchie’s son, Joey David, expressed, “It was heartwarming to witness everyone come together to celebrate my mom’s life and to see the love everyone had for her.”
Participants also emphasized the significance of reaching out and supporting one another in times of need.
David stressed, “Regardless of your circumstances or background, there are individuals willing to lend an ear and provide assistance. A single conversation could potentially be life-saving.”
He underscored the importance of preserving his mother’s legacy, stating, “Our aim is to ensure that people remember Cassidy Ritchie not as a victim, but as a remarkable individual—a devoted mother and a compassionate soul who cared for everyone unconditionally.”
In a show of solidarity, the family unveiled commemorative shirts in memory of Ritchie, featuring her image on the front and a domestic violence hotline number along with the slogan “JUSTICE4CASSIDY” on the back.
David articulated the family’s pursuit of justice and advocacy for change, asserting, “We are committed to seeking justice, preventing such tragedies from recurring, and safeguarding others from experiencing similar pain, irrespective of gender. Our resolve is unwavering.”
Following the arrest of Ritchie’s husband by the Tulsa Police, the Tulsa County District Attorney is poised to press first-degree murder charges against him. He is currently detained on a $5 million bond.