Rita M. Rowe, age 79, passed away on Thursday, April 7, 2022, at 11:36 p.m. at Lima Memorial Health System.  

Rita was born March 12, 1943 in Burlington, KY to the late Forest and Ethel (Quicksall) Sexton.  On April 26, 1960, Rita married Kelly L. Rowe and he preceded her in death on July 15, 1988.

Rita was a lacer at Wilson Sporting Goods for 39 years.  She was a member of the Redeeming Grace Church, Lima where she worshipped the Lord.  She was known for her cooking, especially her big breakfast, and for putting everyone’s needs before her own. During the summertime, you would see her attending bluegrass festivals with Shirley and Fred Hamilton and at the campground with her family.  She was an avid Jeff Gordon and NASCAR fan.

Survivors include a daughter: Robin (Frank Castle) Zuver; a son: Tex (Boots) Rowe; a sister: Edie Burkhart; and a brother: Gene Sexton; 8 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a son, Bob Rowe; a great great grandchild: Roin Carter; two sisters: Francis Holt and Pearly Stephens; and two brothers: Gerold Barnett and Billy Sexton.

Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at Hanson-Neely-Allison Funeral & Cremation Services, Alger.  Burial will be in Preston Cemetery, Alger.  

Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 12, 2022 at Hanson-Neely-Allison Funeral & Cremation Services, Alger and until the time of service Wednesday at the funeral home.    

Memorial contributions may be made to the benevolence of the family in care of Hanson-Neely-Allison Funeral & Cremation Services, P.O. Box 41, Alger, OH 45812.