RITA C. DEERE
Rita C. Deere, age 69, Belton, MO, passed away February 28, 2017 at KU Medical Center.
Rita was born June 27, 1947 in Providence, KY. She was devoted to her family, and a friend to all who crossed her path. Rita was an avid music fan and loved to read and travel. The highlight of her travels was a trip abroad to Donegal, Ireland, where she made many lasting friendships. She also loved to watch and cheer for the Kansas City Royals. Rita retired from federal civil service (Department of Defense) in 2004, after 30 years of service, having made many lasting memories and friendships while with the Air Force Reserve's 442nd Fighter Wing. Rita was a long-time member of Belvidere Heights Baptist Church in Grandview, and lived out her Christian faith every day, serving as an example to many with her kind spirit. Ask anyone who knew her, and Rita will be remembered as a selfless, caring individual whose generosity to others knew no limits. She was well known for celebrating Christmas and birthdays of her beloved family members with "too many" gifts, but her giving heart simply could not be contained.
Rita was preceded in death by her husband of 41 years, John E. Deere (2015); mother, Carolyn Stevens (and step-father Carmen Stevens); father, James Wilson (and step-mother Helen Wilson); sister, Pamela Ipock; and brother, Bruce Wilson.
She is survived by her twins, Steven E. Deere (and wife Kenbra) of Belton and Stacey Deere Brown (and husband Jeff Brown) of Kansas City; her brothers, Donnie Wilson of Dawson Springs, KY, Ricky Wilson (and wife Donna Wilson) of Providence, KY; sister, Diane Smith (and husband Larry Smith) of Providence, KY; sister-in-law, Liane Wilson of Dalton, KY; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many devoted friends.
Visitation will be Thursday, March 2nd, 2017 from 6-8 pm at Cullen Funeral Home in Raymore, MO. A traditional service will be Friday, March 3, 2017 at 10:00 am at Belvidere Heights Baptist Church in Grandview, MO. Burial will be at Belton Cemetery immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to The University of Kansas Cancer Center or Camps for Kids (www.campsforkids.org).
Arrangements: Cullen Funeral Home, Raymore, MO 816.322.5278