NELSON, Rita Joy

NELSON

RITA JOY NELSON of Stirling, beloved daughter of the late Ellen and Farrell Nelson, passed away peacefully at Good Sam’s in Raymond on Sunday, September 18 at the age of 65 years. She is predeceased by her brother Brian. She is survived by her brother Grant (Connie) Nelson of Stirling and their children Jeff (Angie) Nelson, Lisa (Chad) Nelson, Kristi (Darren) Mazutinec, Jimmy (Patti) Nelson, Roxanne (Jared) Heggie, Cindy (Josh) Smith, Kevin (Kaleigh) Nelson, and Shawn (Brett) Nelson, and 36 great nieces and nephews. Rita was a beloved member of the Stirling Community. She played an integral role in the lives of her nieces and nephews, in her church, and with other members of her community. She was friendly, loved to participate in a variety of activities, and cared about others. Almost everyone in town knew who Rita was. She was seen at every basketball game dressed in red, white and blue. Whether she was cheering for the players, or yelling at the refs, everyone knew she was the Lakers number one fan. On summer days she would be seen riding her bike into town and spending hours swimming lengths at the pool. She loved being involved with her church. For over a decade she served in the nursery where she played with the children and helped the leaders keep everything clean and organized. The children loved her. She had a tender heart for her nieces and nephews and their children. She spent her days nurturing, teaching, loving and supporting her family. Her family treasures the memories and the role she played in their lives. Their lives will be forever blessed because of Rita. Friends may meet the family on Thursday, September 22, 2016 at the Stirling LDS Chapel from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., or prior to the funeral service on Friday from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. The Funeral Service will be held on Friday, September 23, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, STIRLING CHAPEL, with Bishop Jeff Nelson officiating. Interment to follow in the Stirling Cemetery.