Rita Eileen Swanson

Born on July 25, 1949, Rita will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection by all who were blessed to know her. Her life reflected steady devotion, an indomitable spirit, and a faithful heart—gifts she offered consistently to family, friends, and her community.

Rita graduated from Jordan High School in Columbus in 1967. With a commitment to learning and service, she later earned an associate degree in nursing from LaGrange College in 1987. She served as a caring nurse at St. Francis hospital for 25 years. In that work, she brought not only skill and advocacy, but also the kind, attentive presence that comforted others in difficult moments.

Rita is survived by her husband, Charles Wesley Swanson, to whom she was married almost 57 years. She was the beloved mother of Chris Swanson (Sarah), Jeremy Swanson (Carmen), Candace Soler (Andres), Crystal Fuller (Allen), and Hillary Elton (Mark). She was also a cherished grandmother to Salem, Joshua, Natalie, Sophie, Lukas, Layla, Storm, Hans, Jackson, Emma, Lee, Chase, Hunter, Nathan, Hannah, and Ally. Rita is survived by her sisters, Myra Hendrix (Lonny) and Sandra Halverson, as well as seven nieces and one nephew. She was predeceased by her parents, Rayford Laroy and Betty Carolyn Henderson.

Rita’s faithful nature was evident as a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, where her life reflected reverence, faith, and a sincere desire to live in harmony and love.

At home, Rita’s caring heart was perhaps most plainly seen in the way she loved animals—always taking in any stray that wandered to their home. They’ve had more dogs and cats than can be counted! She found immense joy in vegetable gardening, planting flowers, teaching her grandchildren about trees, and watching birds. She tended to all living things with the same gentle attention that defined so much of her life.

Rita will be deeply missed, and her memory will remain a lasting comfort to those who loved her.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am on June 22, 2026, at Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Rd, Columbus, GA 31907.