Paul William Trisvan Ritter

Paul William Trisvan Ritter, lovingly known as Bill, passed away on June 4, 2026 in Benton, Arkansas, at the age of 64. He was born on February 12, 1962, in Sacramento, California, to Paul Revere Ritter and Mary Edna Ritter.

Bill was a devoted father, a dedicated family man, and someone whose heart seemed big enough to hold everyone he loved. To Bill, family was everything. He gave all he could to make his children feel loved, safe, and supported. His love showed up in thoughtful, unforgettable ways, like when his daughter had to evacuate during a wildfire in 2021 and he sent her a Build-A-Bear firefighter bear so she would always feel safe with her very own firefighter.

Bill's life was marked by service to others. Before his long career in broadcasting, Bill proudly served in the United States Army Reserve for six years, specializing in communications. He valued the discipline, teamwork, and sense of purpose that military service instilled in him. His time in the Army Reserve reflected the same commitment to service, responsibility, and dedication that would define both his career and his life. Whether serving his country, supporting his colleagues, or caring for his family, Bill approached every role with loyalty, integrity, and a steadfast willingness to help others.

Bill worked for THV Channel 11 News for more than 28 years. He began his career as a videographer and, through dedication, talent, and hard work, rose through the ranks to become News editor/ Assessment desk editor before his retirement. Bill was deeply passionate about his work and took immense pride in the stories his team helped bring to the community. He often spoke of the newsroom as his second family, forming lifelong friendships and sharing countless moments of hard work, laughter, and camaraderie with those who worked alongside him. The people he worked with were not simply colleagues, they were an extension of the family he cherished so deeply.

He had many passions. Bill loved Star Trek more than Star Wars, though he was still one of Darth Vader’s biggest fans. He loved cooking and was a true connoisseur of cookbooks, even if he rarely used them. He was an avid reader, especially of American and World history. He also loved Christmas so much it was his favorite time of year and always dreamed of being Santa Claus, a role he seemed born to play. His only grandson lovingly called him “Grandpa Santa.”

Bill had a gift for making people laugh, even in the darkest moments. In true Bill fashion, he once told his son that when he passed, he wanted everyone to mourn him by eating a Rice Krispies Treat morning snack. “Get it mourning in the morning” In honor of Bill’s humor, warmth, and joyful spirit, the family asks that you celebrate his life by enjoying a Rice Krispies Treat in his memory.

Bill was preceded in death by his father, Paul Revere Ritter, and his mother, Mary Edna Ritter.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Jessica Walling, and her husband, Glenn Walling; his son, Ryan R. Ritter, and his wife, Alejandra; the mother of his children, Reesa Carr; his beloved grandson, Wyatt R. Walling; his sister, Avan Van Haasen, and her husband, Stewart Van Haasen; his nephews, Chris Van Haasen and Nick Van Haasen, and his wife, Jessica Van Haasen; and his great-niece, Eleanor Van Haasen.

Bill will be remembered for his enormous heart, his humor, his devotion to family, and the way he made those he loved feel safe, cherished, and never alone. His love, laughter, and stories will live on in all who knew him.

Arrangements by Arkansas Cremation, 10515 W Markham St, Suite B1, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205. If you would like to leave a message of condolence to the family, you may do so using the Guestbook section.

www.arkansascremation.com