Ethel "Rita" Sturtevant

Ethel “Rita” (Barber) Sturtevant, 91, of Evansville, passed away on Friday, May 3, 2013, at Bethel Manor Nursing Home. She was born on March 17, 1922, in Evansville, to the late William and Cecilia Barber Rita graduated from Reitz High School in 1942. After graduation from Reitz, she worked at Mead Johnson until her marriage. On July 27, 1945, she married Earl M. Sturtevant. She lived a very happy life with Earl until his death on July 11, 1997. Her only child, Jim Sturtevant, retired in 1999 and has taken care of her since 1997. Besides her son, Rita is survived by her nieces, Jean Mahurin, Carolyn Wagoner and Gale Bowen; nephews, Bernie Head and Donald Barber; and great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother, William “Bill” Barber; and sister, Marie Halter. Rita was very active with her husband in various veteran organizations. She was a member of VFW 1114 Auxiliary and she had participated in the VFW Ladies Auxiliary Drill Team. She was Commander of the James Bethel Gresham DAV for eight years. In later years, she became a member of the West Side Optimist Club. Rita was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Evansville. Services will be 10:30 AM Tuesday, May 7, 2013, at Alexander West Chapel, officiated by Rev. Martin Noland, with burial in Lutheran Cemetery. Friends may visit Monday from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the funeral home. The family wishes to give special thanks to Heritage Hospice and Bethel Manor for their help and comfort. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, 1000 West Illinois Street, Evansville, IN 47710. Condolences may be made online at www.AlexanderWestChapel.com.