Jovan D. Ritter

Jovan D. Ritter, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2026, at the University Medical Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. Jovan was born on January 12, 1977 at CharityHospital, in the vibrant city of New Orleans, where she would leave an lasting mark on everyone who knew her. Jovan was the cherished daughter of Shelia Ritter and the late Arnold Jenkins. Her life was a tapestry woven with the love of her family, including her son, Nathaniel Ritter, who was her greatest joy. She is also survived by her devoted mother, Shelia Ritter, her loving sister, Brandy Ritter, and her caring brother, Joshua Ritter, along with a host of family and friends who will forever hold her memory dear. Though life presented its challenges, Jovan faced them with grace and resilience. She was predeceased by several family members, including her father, Arnold Jenkins; her grandmother, Hazel Washington; her grandfather, Jack Ritter; her aunts, Augusta Washington and Jacqueline Jackson; and her uncles, Eric Jackson and William Jackson. Their spirits, undoubtedly, welcomed her with open arms. Jovan's educational journey began at Valena C. Jones Elementary School. She attended Samuel J. Green for Middle School,from there she attended Warren Easton and Alcee Fortier before she graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1995. Driven by a passion to care for others, she pursued a career as a medical assistant, graduating from Cameron College in 1998. Her career path was diverse and fulfilling, as she worked in various roles including medical assistant at several doctor’s offices, guest room attendant at Chateau Nursing Home, security guard at Folgers, cashier at Johnny True Hardware, and ultimately as a dedicated home healthcare giver. In each of these roles, she touched countless lives with her warmth and compassion. Jovan D. Ritter will be remembered for her unwavering strength, her kindness, and the love she shared with everyone around her. Her memory will forever linger in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.