Rita M Walters

A 1964 graduate of Northwestern High School, Rita retired from Delco Electronics after many years of employment and was a member of UAW 292.

A farm girl at heart, she shared many stories of growing up with her brothers and sisters on the family farm in Ervin Township. One that stood out was winning an onion-eating contest (you ate them like apples) while others provided a glimpse of daily life in a large farm family. She carried the faith and values she learned as a child into adult life, shoring them up with a love of the Indiana countryside and a strong belief in the value of hard work. She was deeply committed to her roles of wife, mother, and grandmother and loved to be involved however she could. She was a leader for both Brownies and Cub Scouts. She was a big supporter of youth sports, encouraging her kids to participate year-round, and especially enjoyed running the concession stand at Northwestern’s ball diamonds for several summers. Later, she volunteered at Howard elementary, relishing the opportunity to be around children again. She also volunteered at Hillsdale UMC alongside her sister, Karen.

She had a surprising sense of humor that was revealed in unexpected ways. Whether it was getting into character at Halloween or making some unusual cakes for parties with her co-workers, she found ways to make her work at Delco more enjoyable. She was fascinated by television shows where she could watch how medical procedures were done or learn more about other places. She dreamed of adventures and exploring the U.S. and the world. She encouraged her children and grandchildren to read & learn and to see & experience all that was out there while still embracing Howard County as home.

Rita is survived by her children - Rhonda Walters, Rodney and Debbie Walters, and Regina Walters - her grandchildren - Justin Walters, Jon Walters, and James Walters - and her former husband, Randy Walters. Other surviving relatives include - Bonnie Butler, Pat and Andy Anderson, Audrey Burkhalter, Jim and Linda Lindley, Keith and Pam Lindley, and numerous nieces and nephews as well as her former in-laws - Mike and Peggy Walters and their family.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents - Jim and Marjorie Lindley, her sister - Karen Jarrett, her brothers-in-law - Fred Jarrett and Ed Burkhalter, her infant granddaughter - Courtney Walters, and her former father- and mother-in-law - Donald “Pete” and Bonnie Walters.

Rita’s children would like to thank their father, Randy Walters, for all the care and assistance he provided during Rita’s last years. We are also thankful for the many caring professionals at Five Star Residences of Northwoods, Community Howard, Sycamore Village Care Center, and Paradigm Health.

Rita Marie, a beloved pearl of great price.

There will be a time of visitation for Rita on Tuesday, June 25, 2024 from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at Ellers Mortuary Webster Chapel, 3400 South Webster Street, Kokomo. There will be a time of sharing for family and friends at 1:00 PM. Burial will follow to Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery.