Rita Edmunds

1952 - 2024

Rita Kay Edmunds, 71, of Winter Haven, Florida and formerly of Bloomington, Illinois, passed away on April 18, 2024. Rita was born on May 8, 1952, in Lincoln, IL, to the late Lorene and Wilbur Wayne Johnson. She is survived by her devoted spouse Terry Edmunds, loving children Jason Edmunds and Julie Mendez, son-in-law Paco Mendez, brothers Byron "Barney" Johnson and Roger Johnson, as well as her cherished grandchildren Lucy and Eli Edmunds, and Dona, Gabriel, Nate, and Joanna Mendez. Rita was preceded in death by her brothers Eldon and Charles "Chuck" Johnson, as well as her sister-in-law Edna Johnson.

Rita graduated from Bloomington High School after spending some of her youth on her family farm tending to her baby goats. She married Terry in July 1970, resulting in a union of just under 54 years. Rita happily spent endless hours attending her children's and grandchildren's sports, academic events, and concerts. She also dedicated 40 years of her life to State Farm, starting in the secretarial pool and rising to the role of administrative assistant to the Agency Vice President. Her keen intelligence and hard work then earned her significant positions in State Farm's relocation services. Outside of her successful career, Rita was an avid golfer, even hitting two holes-in-one! She also loved spending time at the beach, enjoyed going shopping and to movies with her friends, and was known for her skill in card games. Rita was a staunch Illinois State Redbird basketball fan, to include having season tickets in the first row at the old Horton Field House. She loved the St. Louis Cardinals too and rarely missed a game. Most of all though, Rita cherished her time spent with family and friends. Rita was beloved by so many for her kindness, compassion, caring and thoughtfulness.

A celebration of Rita's life will be held on Saturday, June 29th from 5:30 to 8:30 at the Den at Fox Creek Golf Course at 3002 Fox Creek Rd., Bloomington, IL 61704.