Rita was born on February 2, 1943. She was one of 11 children born to William and Elsie (Dumke) Patz on a farm in Beaver, Wisconsin.
She was preceded in death by her parents and seven siblings and is survived by her sisters, Ada Kostrova and Linda Burkhart, and her brother, Willie Patz.
As a young person, Rita trusted Christ as her personal Savior.
After high school, Rita moved from the farm to Green Bay, Wisconsin, to work as a secretary. She also took some graphic design classes.
Rita developed a desire to serve the Lord through her work. That desire led her to Bob Jones University, where she faithfully served for 40 years.
During her years at BJU, Rita held several secretarial positions, including serving as secretary to Roy Barton, Chief Financial Officer. She later spent many years in Audio Services, helping distribute recordings of chapel messages to listeners around the world. She continued her interest in interior design and took classes while working at BJU.
Rita was a faithful member of Faith Baptist Church for many years and deeply appreciated the preaching and teaching of God's Word. She was known for her frugality, conscientious spirit, and exceptional organization. Above all, Rita desired to please the Lord in every area of her life and sought to honor Him by doing every task with diligence and excellence.
Though she will be greatly missed, Rita’s faith has now become sight as she rejoices in the presence of her Savior!
A funeral service will be held at Mackey Funerals and Cremations at Woodlawn Memorial Park, 1 Pine Knoll Drive, Greenville, SC 29609, on September 9, 2026, at 2:00 pm.
A committal will follow in Woodlawn Memorial Park.
