Zerita Glenn Cottrell

Rita was preceded in death by her father, Walter Smith, and her mother, Evelyn Hitch; her husband, Ralph “Earl” Cottrell, who died in 2006; her grandparents, Maude and Clyde Hitch; her brother, Ronald Corbett Smith; her children, Candy Painter and Pamela Lambert; and her grandchildren, Danielle Sheehan and Keith Sheehan.

Rita is survived by her sons-in-law, Jordan Bundy-Painter and Tim Bundy-Painter; her sister-in-law, Doris Smith; her nephew, Scott (Teri) Smith; and her nieces, Tami (Ron) Kastle and Sheryl Ashby.

Rita retired in 1993 from State Farm, where she worked in the mailroom. In the years beyond work, she found deep satisfaction in simple, steady joys—time spent traveling with Earl, including a season of life on the road in an RV; quiet hours with a good book; and the comfort of baking for others. She also dearly loved her dog, Chula, who held a special place in her daily life.

Remembered by those who knew her as one of the sweetest people one could meet, Rita carried herself with a gracious warmth—kind in spirit, welcoming in manner, and accepting of everyone. Her life leaves a lasting impression of gentleness, devotion, and care.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, October 3, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. with a visitation one hour prior to service at East Lawn Funeral Home. Following the service will be a graveside service at East Lawn Memorial Gardens. Family friend RJ McCracken will officiate.

A luncheon will be held after the burial starting at 3:00 p.m. at the Bistro, Bloomington.