Rita Jean Woodhurst, age 77, passed away on October 30, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on March 16, 1947, in Load, Kentucky, to her parents, John and Margaret Yates, who preceded her in death, along with her daughter, Teresea Marie Ratliff; grandson, Marty “Buddy” Ratliff; infant son, Donald Ray Hamilton; and sister, Joyce Aldridge.
Rita is survived by her children, James Hamilton, Pamela (Shannon) Shepherd, and Sheryl Deason; grandchildren, Megan, Adam, Amanda, Kellie, Kyle, Cody, Ashley, Kevin, James, Sonny, Tyler; step-grandchildren, Kilee, Nicholai, Cylus, Titus, and Elias; 27 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her siblings, Janet “Kay” Swann-Peterson, Michael Yates, Evelyn Sue Collett, Sheila Porter, and Sherry Mufford; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Rita adored her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she lovingly called her “babies.” She had a deep love for the ocean, particularly Daytona Beach, and cherished her trips there. A music lover, Rita enjoyed all kinds of tunes and was known for her intelligence, often impressing others with her knowledge of game show trivia and her skill at Rook. Her lively spirit shone at garage sales and family gatherings, always wearing a sun hat that became one of her trademarks. Rita was a devoted fan of Diet Coke—never Diet Pepsi.
Grandma Jeannie will be remembered for her warmth, humor, and unwavering love for her family. Her legacy will live on in the lives of those she cherished.
Honoring her wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, November 4, 2024, at Harmony Baptist Church, 6475 Ann Arbor Road, Jackson, Michigan, with lunch to follow. Pastors Cody Shepherd and Rob Walker will be officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the family for final expenses would be greatly appreciated.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rita, please visit our floral store.
Rita Jean Woodhurst, age 77, passed away on October 30, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on March 16, 1947, in Load, Kentucky, to her parents, John and Margaret Yates, who preceded her in death, along with her daughter, Teresea Marie Ratliff; grandson, Marty “Buddy” Ratliff; infant son, Donald Ray Hamilton; and sister, Joyce A
Monday, November 4, 2024
11:00 am
Harmony Baptist Church
6475 Ann Arbor Rd Jackson, MI 49201