Rita Julianna Archambault

Rita Julianna Archambault, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted woman of faith, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025, at the age of 96.

Born in St. Louis on July 15, 1929, to the late Casper and Christine Ullrich, Rita was raised with strong family values and a deep-rooted Catholic faith that would guide her throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 63 years: Robert Archambault, with whom she shared a full and beautiful life raising nine children: Lisa (Bob) Williford, Mark (Sabrina), Neal (Kelly), Dawn Stigall, Shawn (Angie), Darryl, Erin (Brian) Wetteroff, LeiLanai, and Duane; In addition to her own children, Rita lovingly embraced her inherited children, John & Bonnie Burke and Tom & Linda Schreiner, welcoming them into her heart and family as her own.

Rita’s life was rich with family and love. She was the proud grandmother of 18 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, each one a testament to the warmth and strength she instilled in her family. She was preceded in death by her granddaughter Kaela, and her siblings Joan, Carol, Dale, and Gary.

Rita devoted much of her life to her youngest son, Duane, who had special needs. For over 40 years, she tirelessly worked alongside him through the Philadelphia Institute for the Achievement of Human Potential, advocating for his progress and well-being. Her unwavering determination and love were the foundation of his improved life. Rita's strength of character and relentless willpower were unmatched-once she set her mind to something, she made it happen. She was a remarkable woman, whose impact on her family and those around her will never be forgotten.

Rita was a devout catholic and prayer warrior, and a member of Most Sacred Heart Church in Eureka, where her faith remained the cornerstone of her life. A longtime resident of Eureka for 50 years, she was a fixture in the Eureka community, offering kindness, wisdom, and quiet strength to those around her.

Beyond her devotion to family and faith, Rita had a zest for life that inspired everyone who knew her. She loved going to church, the color purple, Holidays, dancing, never missing a chance to enjoy a good tune and a full dance floor. She was dancing till the end while walking with her walker during her morning exercise.

She cherished annual trips with her sisters, filled with laughter, love, and lifelong memories. Rita was also a proud member of The Red Hat Ladies, embracing the group’s spirit of fun, friendship, and fellowship.

Rita will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her deep love for her family, and her joyful enduring spirit. Her legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured and inspired.

Services: A Funeral Mass celebrating Rita’s life will be held at Most Sacred Heart Church in Eureka on Thursday, August 21 at 11:00 a.m. Interment St. Bridget of Kildare Cemetery. Visitation at the SCHRADER Funeral Home - Eureka, 108 N. Central Avenue, Wednesday, August 20, 1:00 - 8:00 p.m., and at the church, Thursday, from 10:00 a.m. until time of Mass. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in her memory. Friends may sign the family’s on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.

She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.