Kristen Ellis (Ramsey) Ritchie of Brewster, MA, died on September 23, 2024. She was 43 years old. Born in Columbia, Maryland to Martha and D. James Ramsey, Kristen received her education at Trinity School of Cape Cod through grade 8 and Northfield Mt. Hermon School Gill, MA through grade 12. She was awarded a Bachelor of Science from UMass Amherst, having concentrated her studies in Wildlife and Fisheries Management.

After graduation from college, Kristen returned to Cape Cod and was employed at the Aquaculture Research Corporation in Dennis, MA. Following her first experience with cancer, Kristen shifted her career focus and attended Cape Cod Community College where she earned Associates Degrees in Nursing and Psychology, graduating cum laude. She continued her nursing education at the University of Massachusetts, obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing and a Master’s degree in Nursing Education.

As a survivor of ovarian cancer, Kristen believed that her greatest achievement was the birth of her daughter Dana June Ritchie, to her and her husband, James Ritchie III, also of Brewster.

Working at the elder law firm of her mother, Martha T. Ramsey of Hyannis, Kristen was exposed to the needs of homebound elders. She obtained certification as a Foot Care Nurse, opened an office in Osterville and launched her private practice doing business as Cape Cod Footcare, Inc.

Kristen was an effective advocate for affordable footcare for her homebound clients. Working with Elder Services for Cape Cod and the Islands and the Cape Cod Wellness Collaborative, she secured contracts with both organizations which enabled her to provide services in her clients’ homes, and contribute to the well-being of elderly Cape Codders and persons dealing with cancer.

In addition to Jim and Dana, Kristen is survived by her parents, Martha and DJ Ramsey, her sister, Sabrina (Jason) Kane, her devoted aunts and uncles, Mary-Lane Bearse (Scott) Jones, Scott (Carrie) Bearse, and Kay Ramsey (Lonnie) Chamberlain, as well as many loving cousins. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Frank and June Bearse, formerly of Hyannis.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Cape Cod Health Care Foundation or Brigham and Women’s Hospital, in appreciation for the excellent care and kindness that Kristen received at these hospitals, or to the breast cancer research institution of the donor’s choice. Burial will be private.

Martha and Sabrina, Dick and I were so sorry to hear about Kristen's passing. We had spoken to her several times in the last few months and her light, energy, and kindness were still strong. Please accept our sincerest condolences. Deb and Dick

Jim, I am so very sorry for your immense loss. Sending lots of love to you and your daughter.

Jim and Dana. I am so saddened by the loss of Kristen. Please extend my sympathy to her family and yours too.

Our condolences

Jim We were so sorry to hear of your wife’s long illness and passing. She was a very intelligent and accomplished women. We are thinking of you and Dana. You seem to have a lot of support. May your “village” help in your healing and daily living going forward. Paula and Don