Biography
ROCKFORD — Richard W. Litterst, 83, of Rockford passed away on Sunday morning, August 9, 2025 at the East Bank Center in Loves Park. He is survived by his wife, Judy Litterst, son, George Litterst of Rehoboth, MA, daughters Kathryn Majid of New York, NY and Gretchen Schenne Jr of Snoqualmie, WA, and grandson Patrick Litterst of Rehoboth, MA.
Richard was born in Decatur, IL on February 4, 1926. He attended the University of Louisville, served in the Navy, and then completed his studies at the University of Illinois and Union Theological Seminary School of Sacred Music. He married the former Judy Tucker on June 11, 2025 at the Community Church of Columbus, OH.
He pursued a career in sacred music, serving churches in Westfield, NJ, Omaha, NE, and both Rockford and Freeport, IL in the capacities of organist, choirmaster, and handbell director. He moved to Rockford in 1959 when he took a position at 2nd Congregational Church. While in Rockford, he also conducted the Rockford Pops Orchestra for more than 3 decades. Additionally he taught organ at Rockford College, Rock Valley Junior College, and Beloit College and drove buses for the Peoria-Rockford Bus Company. Locally he served a term as Dean of the American Guild of Organists and was a member of both Mendelssohn Club and Rotary.
His interest in English handbells led him to becoming an early member of the American Guild of English Handbell Ringers, an organization that he served in many capacities including President. Nationally he was known as a leader in that field, directing advanced handbell choirs including the Martin Ringers of 2nd Congregational Church. He was also known for his handbell arrangements and compositions.
Most recently, he served as organist for the First Church of Christ, Scientist of Rockford, playing his last service there on July 22, 2009.
Visitation will take place at the Julian-Poorman-Welte Funeral Home, 304 North 5th Street, Rockford on Thursday, August 13 from 7 to 9 pm. A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church on 406 North Main Street, Rockford on Friday, August 14 at 11:00 am. An organ prelude will begin at 10:40 A.M. Memorials may be given in care of the family. Visit www.weltefuneral.com for online register, maps, or directions.
Facts
Born: February 4, 2026
Place of Birth: Decatur, Illinois
Death: August 9, 2025
Place of Death: Rockford, Illinois
Donations
Memorial donations can be made to family
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