Rita Marie Crader

Rita Marie Crader (Squire), of Warner Robins, Georgia, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was 87 years old. Rita was born on July 16, 1938, in Westcliffe, Colorado, to the late Fred and Marie (Stone) Squire. She was a woman of deep faith, strong character, and boundless love, whose life was marked by devotion to her family, her church, and her calling to serve others. Rita was united in marriage to her beloved husband, John Crader. Together, they shared a life raising their four children with love and laughter. John preceded her in death, and Rita carried his memory with her always. Later in life, Rita founded Health Tech of Georgia, an allied health school that became a source of immense pride and purpose for her. Through Health Tech of Georgia, Rita trained hundreds of Certified Nursing Assistants, Medical Assistants, phlebotomists, and other healthcare professionals, leaving a lasting impact on the healthcare community and countless lives. Rita had many passions. She loved gardening, especially her azaleas, and was known for her special method that kept them blooming all spring long. She was also an avid traveler, one of the great joys of her life, and had the opportunity to travel around the globe twice. Her Catholic faith was the center of her life from beginning to end, guiding her actions and sustaining her through every season. Above all else, Rita's greatest joy came from her family-her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She cherished hosting "Camp Grandma" each summer, welcoming her grandchildren into her home and creating memories that will last a lifetime. From the Paper Plate Olympics to her own version of the Amazing Race, Rita filled those days with laughter, creativity, and unconditional love-core memories her grandchildren will forever hold close to their hearts. Rita lived a life full of faith, love, laughter, and joy. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Crader, and her parents, Fred and Marie Squire. Left to cherish her memory are her children: Kathy Crader; Wendy Wilkes (Stan); Galen Crader; and Becky Crader (Mike). She is also survived by her grandchildren: Bradley; Megan (Caitlin); Devon (Autumn); Savannah (Kyle); Dakota (Makenzi); and Eva; and her great-grandchildren: Everly, Rilyn, Tobin, Harrison, and Emerson. Rita is survived by her siblings: Ralph Squire (Bernice), Rhoda Brady, Ronda Kuhlmann (Rolly), Rick Squire (Yvonne), Ron Squire (Janice), Roger Squire (Willene), James Squire (Janice), and Bob Squire (Donna), along with many nieces and nephews, all of whom were special to her-especially Meladee, Debbie, and Jerry. A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. The family will receive friends and family one hour prior to the Mass at the church. Interment will follow the service. Father Fred and Deacon Jim will officiate. Rita Marie Crader will be remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother; a woman of unwavering faith; and a legacy builder whose love and influence will continue for generations. With honor, Burpee-Scott Memorial Chapel & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements.