Rita Joanne Charles

Born Rita Joanne on November 21, 1936, she was known as Joanne throughout most of her life. While most friends and family knew her as Joanne, she remained “Rita” to her sisters and their children—a cherished reminder of her roots and the close bond she shared with her family.

Joanne devoted her life to caring for others. She worked for many years in surgery at Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie, retiring in 1998. Retirement was short-lived, however, as she returned to work through WorkOne in Muncie, where for more than fifteen years she assisted individuals in finding employment, exploring new opportunities, and navigating unemployment resources. She found great purpose in helping others move forward during challenging times in their lives.

Joanne was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose love, encouragement, and strength touched generations.

Joanne is survived by her children, Rick (Brenda) Lea of Portland; Randy (Sherry) Lea of Indianapolis; and Connie (Randy) Kerrigan of Kendallville; her sister, Geneva Koons of Muncie; her grandchildren, Christy Dean of Portland; Raeanne Eller and her companion, Andy Case, of Fishers; Andy (Kyley) Eller of Muncie; Brittany Daugherty of St. Petersburg, Florida; Lindsay Kerrigan and Brilyn Kerrigan, both of Kendallville; Lauren Kerrigan of Chicago, Illinois; Kris (Lisa) Lea of Pottsville, Arkansas; Tyler (Cortney) Lee of Rochester; Tanner Charles and his companion, Malissa Walsh, of Muncie; and Hunter Charles of Muncie; along with numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her son, Mike Lea; her daughter, Lisa Charles; her beloved granddaughter, April Lea Guy; and her sisters, Alice Estep and Betty Reed.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and staff at Parkview Regional Medical Center and Parkview Hospice for the compassionate care, comfort, and support they provided during Joanne’s final days.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Elm Ridge Funeral Home on June 29, 2026, viewing is 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM with services immediately following to celebrate Joanne’s life and the legacy of love, kindness, and service she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Joanne’s memory to Parkview Hospice or the Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute.