Rita Marie Durham, 81, of Sheridan, passed away January 2, 2026. Rita was born in Indianapolis on December 9th, 1944, to parents Ralph Rogers and Alta Rose She graduated from Ben Davis High School.
Rita worked as a dietician and Manager at Southport High School. After retirement Rita worked as a bus assistant helping children on and off the bus and with their travels to and from school. Rita loved working with the children and had many happy stories she enjoyed sharing.
Rita was preceded in death by her husband Jim Durham and son Darrell Martin.
Rita is survived by son David Martin, Daughters Diane Jones and Linda Schmidt and stepdaughter Tammy Page and stepson Jimmy Durham. Rita was blessed with 6 Granddaughters: Kayla Martin, Brittany Baliga, Ashley Durham Jenna Schmidt, Kelly Schmidt & Wendi Tomlison. 9 Grandsons: Dylan Vondersaar, Dallas Vondersaar, Bryan Schmidt, Darren Johnson, Brandon Johnson, Jason Hamersley, Corey Hamersly, Anthony Ramon and James Durham. Rita also had 21 great grand kids.
Friends may call on January 12, 2026, from 10 am to 12 pm with a service following 12pm at Flanner Buchanan-Washington Park East.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
10722 E Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46229

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreSponsored