It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rita Kay Ellis, a beloved mother, grandma, friend, and community leader, who departed this life surrounded by love on December 12, 2025. She was born on March 3, 1947, to the late Everett & Eloise (McClure) Williams in Vincennes, Indiana. Rita was a proud 1965 graduate of Fritchton High School, where she cherished her time as an Eagle and carried those fond memories throughout her life.

Rita was an active member of the Thursday Church in Vincennes, where her faith and compassion touched many. For 12 years, she led Weight Watchers, offering guidance and support to countless individuals in Washington, Princeton, Bicknell, Loogootee, and Vincennes. In 1992, she earned her real estate license and became an invaluable assistant to Heath Klein of Klein Realty, serving as his right hand for 14 remarkable years.

A devoted advocate for her community, Rita was deeply involved with the March of Dimes and played a prominent role in the Relay for Life after her courageous battle with cancer in 1995. Her heart was always with those in need, and as a proud member of the American Legion Auxiliary, she held various positions, ultimately becoming President in 2010. Rita was instrumental in the "Paws with a Cause" project, providing trained service dogs to assist veterans and individuals with autism & other disabilities, a legacy that will continue to touch lives.

Rita’s passion did not stop there; alongside her late husband, who was also a dedicated leader in the American Legion, she enjoyed attending conventions and conferences, traveling to different states, and engaging with the American Legion family. Following her retirement, she continued to contribute as a secretary for Eric Klein & Appraisal Services.

Rita found immense joy in her furry companion, Scamp, and developed a loving bond that brought her comfort after the loss of her husband. Known for her vibrant spirit, she was always the first on the dance floor and the last to leave, embracing life’s moments with a joyful heart. As Rodney Watts' biggest fan, she celebrated not only his talent but the joy that music brought to her life. Every year, she shared this musical passion with her family, delighting them with her singing of carols while looking at Christmas lights. If Rita knew your birthday, you might have also been graced, yearly, with a beautiful rendition of happy birthday. Her love for family vacations, especially on sun-kissed beaches, and her fierce competitiveness at the euchre table, playing crazy eights, or razzing her family over a game of trouble showcased her zest for life. Family meant everything to her, and nowhere was that more evident than at Sunday dinners, where she gathered her loved ones and always saved room for dessert – ice cream sundaes or Turtle Pie being her favorites. Rita always made sure to always let each person know to "watch out for deer" when leaving, and it was her unique way of saying she loved you.

Rita is survived by her cherished daughters, Cindy Kaye Williams, and Melanie Sue Ellis and her wife Brooke (Blackburn) Ellis; her grandson, Reese Blackburn; and her niece, Krista Wallace.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth R. Ellis; her parents, Everett & Eloise; and her sister, Gertrude O’Haver.

Visitation for Rita will be held from 4:00-6:00pm ET on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home 524 Broadway St., Vincennes, IN 47591. A celebration of life will begin at 6:00pm following visitation. Rita will be cremated per her wishes. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the American Legion Post #73. Donation envelopes will be provided at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be shared at goodwinsieversfh.com. Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home is honored and privileged to be entrusted with the care of Rita and her family.