She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother; two half-brothers; and two half-sisters.

She is survived by two sisters, Vona Smith of Salina and Nancy Herrman of Hays, Kansas; two brothers, Robert Davies of Lincoln, Kansas, and James Davies of Wichita, Kansas; one half-sister, Josephine Olson of Junction City, Kansas; and one half-brother, Clinton Davies of Clay Center, Kansas.

Afflicted with Downs Syndrome, Rita resided at the state hospital in Winfield, Kansas, from 1967-1976. From 1976-2002, she resided at and was employed by the Big Lakes Development Center in Manhattan, Kansas, where she worked at several manufacturing and service activities. Rita was for many years an active participant in the Kansas Special Olympic Games and earned numerous medals for those endeavors. Those who took the time and opportunity to get to know Rita now know the true meaning of love.

There will be no funeral service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Big Lakes Development Center, 1416 Hayes Drive, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, or may be left at Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. 8th Street, Salina, Kansas 67401.