Rita Simmons

Rita Kay Simmons, 66, of Sedalia, MO, passed away Sunday, July 2, 2017 at E.W. Thompson Health and Rehabilitation Center in Sedalia, MO. She was born on April 10, 1951 in Sedalia, the daughter of George Pearl Jr., and Mona Blanche (Schlobohm) Irven, who preceded her in death.

On August 17, 1969 in LaMonte, MO, she was united in marriage to Robert Gary, who resides of the home.

Rita graduated from Cole Camp High School in 1969. Rita spent many years as a licensed beautician. She also worked for her father in his store. Rita worked at the Sedalia Wal-Mart for 23 years before retiring in 2016. She was an avid reader and enjoyed putting together jigsaw puzzles. She enjoyed playing board games and especially loved being with her grandchildren.

In addition to her husband Robert, she is survived by a daughter, Chelle Simmons of Sedalia; two sons, Rob Simmons and his wife Michelle of Warsaw and Rich Simmons and his wife Ashley of Sedalia; five grandchildren, Shannon, Brittany, Zach, Lane and Colt; two sisters, Linda Dir and her husband Joe of Kingsville, MO, Joyce Moriarty and her husband Mike of Bates City, MO; six brothers, Steve Pearl and his wife Laura of Independence, MO, Harry Pearl and his wife Eileen of Norman, OK, Jeff Pearl and his wife Patty of Sedalia, Mark Pearl of Warsaw; Floyd Pearl of Kansas City, MO, and Marvin Pearl of Warsaw.

A celebration of life service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 8, 2017 at Lifepointe Church with Pastor Rusty Thomas officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Lifepointe Church in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.