Rita Eileen Barber, 72, Sweetser, passed away at 1:28 pm on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at Marion Health from pulmonary embolism. She was born in Medaryville, Indiana, on Friday, November 23, 1951, to Keith and Peggy (Myers) Taylor. She had an infectious smile that lit up a room.
Rita graduated from West Central High School class of 1969 and worked at MCL Cafeteria for 34 years, Sam's Club for 5 years, and Kensey Youth Center for 10 Years. She had a passion for karaoke, dancing, music, cooking, crafts, flowers, taking road trips, and casinos. She attended Christland United Methodist Church in Marion, Indiana.
Rita cherished spending time with her family and friends. She believed in living life to the fullest. She would want us to toast to joy, life, and family rather than tears or heartache, and always live by the “Golden Rule”.
Survivors include her life partner, Rick Gochenour and his son, Andy Gochenour; daughter, Tonya Matthews; grandsons, Brent (Chanda) Matthews and Dillon (Summer) Matthews; great-granddaughter, Amaily Long; great-grandsons, Raidyn Long, Gage Long, and Ozzy Matthews; brothers, Kenny (Jeanie) Skalon, Mike (Paula) Skalon, and Dave (Tonya) Skalon; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her father, Keith Taylor; mother, Peggy Taylor; and brother, Don Taylor.
A Celebration of Life will take place from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Christland United Methodist Church, 721 E. Charles St., Marion, IN 46952.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Marion-Grant County Humane Society, P.O. Box 1921, Marion, IN 46952 or Kokomo Humane Society, 729 E. Hoffer St., Kokomo, IN 46902.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
To send flowers to the family of Rita, please visit our floral store.
