Rita Gale Dillinger

1966 - 2026

  Rita Gale Dillinger, age 59, of Wellston, passed away Thursday, March 26, 2026 at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.  She was born on September 21, 1966 in Oak Hill, Ohio to Janice Trivette Greenway, who survives.  Rita graduated from Wellston High School with the class of 1985.  She was a hard worker all her life, having worked at KFC, Walmart, Speyside Cooperage and as a home health aide.  Rita simply enjoyed taking care of people.  Her kind, sweet, and funny personality always brought a smile and laughter to others.  Rita loved flowers and animals; but her true joy was found in being a grandma.  In addition to her mother, Rita is survived by her husband of 33 years, David Dillinger; daughter, Andrea Gale Bates (Connor); siblings, Holly Gussler (Bob), Lance Greenway and Mandy Manning (Scott); and grandchildren, Ava, Andrew and David Boone.  Rita was preceded in death by her infant son, Matthew David Dillinger; brother Troy Greenway; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Carroll and Wanda Dillinger, and grandmother, Pearl Trivette.  A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Ridgewood Cemetery in Wellston with Pastor Michael Jadrnicek officiating.  Rita’s family has requested that there be no viewing or calling hours.  Friends are invited to line up at McWilliams Funeral Home for a procession to the cemetery on Tuesday between 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.  Arrangements are under the direction of the McWilliams Funeral Home in Wellston.  Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.mcwilliams-funeralhome.com.