Patricia King-Ritter will step down from her position as director of Evelyn’s Park on June 30, according to an announcement from the board of directors for the park's conservancy.

King-Ritter will step away from the role after being involved with Evelyn’s Park Conservancy to focus her energy and time on her family, according to the announcement. She succeeded Denton Ragland in the position in 2018.

“It’s been a part of my life for seven years,” King-Ritter said during her final monthly report to Bellaire City Council on June 1. “It has been a passion of mine to watch Evelyn grow, to figure her out. It’s time for me to let go and let her open her wings a bit. Letting go is never easy. I want to throw a big thank you to the community for allowing me to guide her.”

The outgoing park director also served as board member and board president; lead a successful Phase 1 capital campaign and completion of new facilities; created a series of recreational, cultural and environmental programs; formed community and organizational partners; and implemented a rental program for the park’s event center, according to the announcement.

“All Board members--present and past, recognize the special passion, enthusiasm and dedication to the mission that King-Ritter has demonstrated throughout her association with EPC,” conservancy board Chairman Jerry Wische wrote in the announcement. “She will be greatly missed by the Board, staff members, community partners and many volunteers. Her work has laid the foundation for a strong future.”


A director has yet to be selected to succeed King-Ritter, though the conservancy’s board of directors is in the midst of developing transition plans, according to the announcement.