Rita Eunice Nelson (Heiberg), 73, of Waynesville, IL, passed away 4:15 PM, August 1, 2023 in Bloomington, IL.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Waynesville Christian Church on August 26, 2023 from 1 – 4pm with Skeet Stribling officiating. The family entrusted Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with cremation rites.

Memorials may be directed to OSF Hospice or the Waynesville Christian Church.

Rita was born January 10, 1950 in Bloomington, IL the daughter of Gerald and Ina (Wampler) Nelson.

Survivors include her daughters, Rhonda (Richard) Thornton, Bloomington, IL and Holly (Andy) Murphy, Waynesville, IL; grandchildren:  Jessica, Mason, Brandon, Daisha, Richie, Ian, Ellie, Audrey, and Izzy; seven great-grandchildren; and sister, Shirley Langhoff, Bloomington, IL, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and beloved friends.  

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Jerry Nelson and Jeanette Forman; and brother-in-law, Bill Langhoff.  

Rita worked at OSF Hospital for 18 years and attended the Waynesville Christian Church.  She took care of her parents and brother in their final days.  Rita loved to spoil her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Rita enjoyed crocheting, reading, drinking coffee, and collecting pig figurines.  She loved her dog, Marty Ken Pickle.  Rita did not know a stranger and made everyone laugh.  She was ornery, sarcastic, and a joy to all who knew her.  She will be greatly missed.    

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com