Rita Booher passed away quietly Monday after suffering from a long-term illness.
Rita was born on Jan. 14, 1935, in Richland, Iowa, to Norval and Irene (French) Hinshaw. She graduated from Richland High School and attended Northeast Missouri State Teachers College (now Truman State University) in Kirksville, Mo.
On March 3, 1956, she married Gary Joe Booher.
Rita enjoyed a career in both education and service to the church. She taught fifth grade and served as a teacher’s aid for several years at Clarksville, Iowa, school district. After relocating to Branson, Mo., she served as secretary at the United Methodist Church and St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, both in Branson.
After several years of service, she retired with her family to Harrison, Ark. She passed away at the Hospice of the Hills in Harrison.
During her life, Rita traveled regularly to visit family and friends. She enjoyed various crafts that included knitting, sewing, crocheting and painting.
Survivors include her husband, Gary (Harrison), daughter Dana Arnold (Harrison), daughter Lisa Haas (Leland, Harrison) and son Steve Booher (Christine, St. Joseph, Mo.). She is also survived by nine grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and five nieces and nephews.
Rita was preceded in death by her father, Norval, her mother, Irene, her sister Mildred Young and her brother Robert Hinshaw.
Rita was cremated. A memorial service was held at the United Methodist Church in Branson.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Hospice of Hills, 501 E. Sherman, Harrison, Ark. 72601. Or log on to hospiceofthehills.com and click the “donate” link.