Obituary: Nancy G. Riter
Nancy G. Riter, 85, Passes Away in Portland
Portland, Maine – Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026
By Maine News Now Staff
Nancy “Nonnie” G. Riter, a lifelong resident of Falmouth and a beloved fixture in Portland’s social circles, died peacefully at Maine Medical Center on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026. She was 85, just shy of her 86th birthday on Oct. 14.
Born in Montclair, New Jersey, on Oct. 14, 1940, Riter spent most of her adult life in Maine, where she called Falmouth home for over two decades. Her days were filled with a blend of community service, professional ambition, and adventurous travel. “There was nothing she couldn’t tackle,” one friend recalled, noting her transition from phlebotomist and medical office manager to horse‑show wrangler and real‑estate entrepreneur.
Riter’s household in Falmouth was a lively one, shared with two Maine Coon cats, Diesel and Benji. She also maintained close ties to her extended family: her son, Scott, and daughter‑in‑law Maggie; four grandchildren—Kelly; Patrick and his wife Shannon; Ian and his fiancée Victoria; and Austin; and two great‑grandchildren, Roran and Rian. She was also survived by her sister Susie and husband Dickie, brothers Jen (with wife Janie) and Mike (with wife Kim), as well as a network of nieces, nephews, and long‑time friends.
Beyond family, Riter’s reputation as a generous listener and helper was woven into the fabric of her community. Friends and neighbors recall snowy toboggan rides down Mountainside Park, Christmas Eve snuggles awaiting Santa, and the thrill of catching a record‑setting grouper. Her adventurous spirit also led her to river boating trips across Europe, dog‑sledding excursions, helicopter flights above Alaskan glaciers, and “snow‑birding” trips between Maine and Florida. She enjoyed simple pleasures—ice cream, peanut butter, coffee, and “breakfast for dinner” gatherings—often turning them into moments of shared laughter.
“Nonnie always put others before herself,” said a longtime friend. “She spread warmth, humor, wisdom, and kindness wherever she went.” The community will remember her for her steadfast determination, stubbornness, and grit—a spirit she carried into every endeavor.
Riter’s final message to those who loved her was one of belief and comfort: to believe in oneself and to find solace in the idea that her renewed spirit now soars above the clouds with the angels.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date, following arrangements by the Conroy‑Tully Walker Cremation, Funeral and Gathering Center at 300 Allen Avenue, Portland. The funeral home will coordinate a memorial service that reflects Riter’s vibrant personality and enduring legacy.
Nonnie Riter leaves a legacy of service, adventure, and unconditional love that will be cherished by all who were privileged to know her.
