Rita M Thompson, 81, of Herington, Ks., passed away on June 1, 2023, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on August 14, 1941, in Almartha, Mo. to Gladys M. Fry-Doll and Levingston Fry. Rita was a gentle and loving soul who always had a smile for everyone she met. She loved her family and friends unconditionally and would do anything she could to help others. Rita adored her cat Gabe and enjoyed crafting many things to give to her family and friends to brighten their day.

Rita attended Salina Central High and completed two years of college. She held various secretarial jobs throughout her life and later became a driver for Renzenberger Inc., transporting railroaders to and from trains. Rita was also the owner and operator of Mom’s Taxi until retiring in 2008.

Rita is survived by her brothers Ronald Fry of Alabama, Sherman “Earl” Fry and wife Susan Fry of Salina Ks. and Steven Fry of Alabama.Two sons, Jerry Avise and spouse Angela and Mark Avise and spouse Mary Canaday of Salina Ks, Daughter, DeeAnn Ludden and her husband Robert Ludden of Herington Ks, Grandchildren Tyler McCourt, Nicole Steele, James Commerford, Wesley Commerford, Chelsea Barnes, Mark Avise, Crystal Purdue, and Tiffany Keith, as well as many great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother, Gladys M. Fry-Doll, father Levingston Fry, her sister Linda James and spouse Jesse James, her grandson Jerry L Avise-Jackson, her nephew Jesse James Jr., and her niece Laura Schmidt.

Per her wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no services. There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her honor to the Humane Society. Rita will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Legacy.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Roselawn Burial and Cremation Services. Online condolences may be sent to www.roselawnsalina.com.