Rita Anne Williams

With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to Rita Anne Williams, a cherished wife, a devoted mother, and a beloved grandmother, who departed this world on the 3rd of November, 2023, following her battle with COPD. 

A funeral mass will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Clinton. A viewing for the family will take place before the service at 5:00 p.m. at the church. Kibler Brady Ruestman Memorial Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Rita was born on the 20th of March, 1956, in Bloomington, Illinois, to Bobby Lee Gaddy and Rita Rose Gaddy. Rita, the heart and soul of her family, was the steadfast companion of Robert Earl Williams, they married on November 20, 1981 in Bloomington. The Pope blessed their marriage.

She was the nurturing matriarch of her four children, Christopher Williams, Jennifer (Anthony Bombardo) Williams, Robert Williams, and Daniel Williams. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Trace Williams, Lilyanna Williams, Lynk Williams and Oliver Williams; siblings, Debbie (Bruce) Askins, Will (Sue) Gaddy, Bridget (Bob) Helgeson, and Paul Gaddy; and a sister-in-law, Steph Gaddy.

Rita will be joining in Heaven her parents and a brother, David Gaddy.

Rita extended her motherly embrace to all who were fortunate enough to cross her path. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University in teaching, which provided her with many opportunities to make an impact on her students. 

Her zest for life, her exuberant celebrations of each holiday, left indelible impressions of joy, laughter, and boundless love. Rita's gift for creating magical moments was unparalleled, etching memories into the hearts of her family that shall endure through generations. 

Her memory, like an eternal flame, shall continue to illuminate the hearts of those privileged to have known her. Her children are eternally grateful for the blessing of such a wonderfully loving grandmother for their own children

Though Rita Anne Williams shall be profoundly missed, her legacy of love, creativity, and nurturing spirit shall forever inspire us. As we bid her farewell, we find solace in knowing that she is now free from pain and has been reunited with those she held dear in the heavenly embrace. May she rest in eternal peace, painting the skies with the colors of her soul.

In addition to the funeral mass, Rita’s family will be hosting a memorial celebration, to honor and celebrate the tapestry of Rita's life, which will take place at a later date and at a location that shall be disclosed to those wishing to pay their respects.