Rita Hostetter Wills

Born on January 25, 1933, in Lexington, Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Walter Douglas Allen and Dollie McClung Hostetter Davis. Rita attended E.C. Glass High School and was a longtime member of Christ Community Church.

Rita dedicated many years of her professional life as Assistant Manager of The Piedmont Club, where she was known for her strong work ethic and warm presence. Though her career there was fulfilling, she carried a lifelong dream of becoming a nurse. In a testament to her determination and spirit, Rita pursued that dream after retirement with the encouragement and support of her daughter, earning her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification, an achievement she held with great pride.

Rita was spiritual and enjoyed reading her bible and attending Bible studies. Rita had a lifelong love of books. She surrounded herself with a wide variety of books and always wanted to gain knowledge and improve herself. She especially liked books on Princess Diana.

I believe the key to Mom's longevity was her feistiness and determination and her ability to count her blessings. Mom was always careful not to waste food or anything. She would say that she grew up in the depression where you did not waste anything. Mom would frequently call and say she just wanted to hear my voice. When I worked late Mom would stay up and call me and say she wanted to "ride" with me home to catch up and make sure I was safely home.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially flowers and gardening, and she had a deep love for animals. Cats were a constant and cherished part of her life from childhood onward. Her beloved companion, Lexie, affectionately called “Trick,” held a special place in her heart.

In addition to her parents, Rita was preceded in death by her son, Michael Scott Wills, and the father of her children, Walter Malcolm Wills.

She leaves to behind her devoted daughter, Sheila M. Wills; her granddaughter, Mary Michael Cantrell (Kendall); her grandson, Cameron Scott Wills; her daughter-in-law, Sharon Wills; a longtime friend, Helen Connelly; and many who were touched by her kindness, resilience, and enduring love.

Per the family’s wishes, services will be held at a later date.

Many thanks to the staff at Liberty Ridge Health and Rehabilitation for caring for Mom.

Anyone wishing to make memorial donations in Rita’s name please consider the Lynchburg Humane Society, Development Department, 1211 Old Graves Mill Road, Lynchburg, VA 24502 or Christ Community Church, 2209 S Amherst Hwy, Amherst, VA 24521.