Rita Embrey

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Rita Mae Embrey of Stark City, Missouri, passed away peacefully in her home on April 24, 2025, with her loved ones by her side. She was 75 years old.

Rita was born on November 21, 1949, in Dixon, Illinois, to Ned and Edna (Brown) Roderick. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose warmth, humor, and love of life touched all who knew her.

She worked for 15 years at Granby Manufacturing before retiring from the Accounts Receivable Department at Crowder College in Neosho, Missouri. After retirement, Rita embraced her most important role—being "Grandma" to her grandchildren, and "Grammy" to her great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Rita had a passion for the outdoors and simple pleasures. She loved knitting, fishing, and camping - especially near Beaver Dam in Arkansas. A true appreciator of natural beauty, she had a special fondness for rocks and mountains. She and her beloved husband, Ethan, shared many adventures traveling across the country together. Whether it was a Sunday ride to Branson for supper on their Goldwing motorcycle or exploring the majestic landscapes of Verde Valley and Monument Valley, Rita cherished the memories of their travels for years to come.

Closer to home, she found joy in life on the farm. She especially loved calving season, watching red calves dot the green pasture. Her connection to nature and family was woven through every part of her life.







Rita is survived by her loving husband, Ethan Embrey; her children: Sherry (Rick) Morgan of Stella, Missouri, Toni Ester (Dewayne Kimbrough) of Stella, Missouri, Tulsa Embrey of Oxford, Kansas, Penny (Darin) Plush of Oxford, Kansas, and Bobby (Rhiannon) Ester of Neosho, Missouri. She also leaves behind eleven grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren—and one more on the way, and one great-great-grandchild. Rita is also survived by her sister, Nedra Roderick of Webb City, Missouri, and her brother, Gene Stewart of Keithsburg, Illinois.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ned and Edna Roderick, and her brother, John Stewart Sr.

Rita will be remembered for her loving heart, adventurous spirit, and the deep legacy of family and memories she leaves behind.