Rita Ann Whiteker

On January 10, 2024, Rita Ann Childers Whiteker was surrounded by angels as she was escorted to her eternal home in Heaven. Rita, age 67, along with her dog and companion Jack, was a cherished resident of Parkview Manor in Williamstown, KY.

Rita was born January 18, 1956 in Covington, KY she was the beloved daughter of the late Charles L. Childers of Middletown, OH and Ruth Ann Lonkard Cheeks of Erlanger, KY.

Rita was a 1974 graduate of Grant County High School. She was a dedicated homemaker for many years before working outside the home in administration at Clarion Manufacturing, Excel Global Logistics, MSAS/DHL as a shipping freight coordinator. In recent years she was a respected caregiver of many elderly within the community, helping to fill in the gap and lessen the burden during fragile states of life. Her most treasured patient being that of her former mother-in-law and friend of over 50 years, Euelta Fern Whiteker of Falmouth, KY. She is fondly remembered by family and fellow caregivers’ for her loyal dedication, compassion, strength and grace during this very difficult transitionary time.

For many years she served her family as a dedicated wife and mother, always placing her family’s need above that of her own. She shares a daughter and grandson with her former husband of 40 years and friend, Calvin Keith Whiteker. Her most precious title being that of Grandma to Ryder, as she beamed with pride when talking of him.  She was a remarkably creative person who found joy in decorating, crafting and home management. She was a gifted seamstress and outstanding cook, who maintained large gardens for many years. She is fondly remembered for many things she sewed and made to share with others, as well as her neat, organized and spotless home.

In addition to her Mother, Ruth Ann, she is survived by her loving daughter, Keisha Ann Whiteker of Dry Ridge and her treasured grandson, Ryder Delaney. She was a sister to the late Rhonda Childers Barnes who preceded her in death, and Cassandra Cheeks-Hall of Erlanger, KY. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.  In addition she was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents Elmer and Willena Simpson Lonkard of Williamstown, KY, paternal grandparents Ernest and Marie Childers of Middletown, OH. Special sister in law and friend Leanna Brown.  She looked forward to the day that she would be reunited with her adored sister Rhonda.

Above all Rita is remembered for her vibrant smile, her inner and outer beauty, her infectious laugh and her enormous heart for those in need or who were in a position of needing assistance and a hand up. She loved deeply and excelled as a servant to those in and outside of her family. In 2023 she rededicated her life to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In recent months and days she is fondly remembered for her excitement and thirst to know more about Him. She truly loved sharing her testimony of what HE had done to transform her heart and life and was eager to share for others to receive. She clung to the hem of his robe until she departed to her heavenly home.  In her final days this side of heaven she enjoyed attending and serving at church, Family Worship Center, Williamstown, KY and fellowshipping with her friends’ and fellow residents at Parkview Manor.

Funeral services will be Monday, January 15, 2023 at 1:00 PM at Family Worship Center, 1380 N. Main St, Williamstown, KY and visitation will begin at 11:00 AM until the time of the service.

In memory of her special tenderness, you can honor Rita and her memory of generosity by donating to Shine Outreach, PO Box 125,  Williamstown KY 41097 or Tenant Fund at Parkview Manor, 228 S Main St, Williamstown KY 41097.