Monroe City, IN – Rita Jo Ann Sandefer, age 82, of Monroe City, Indiana, passed away on December 24, 2023. She was born on July 17, 1941 to Minerva & Earl Chaney. Rita was a proud graduate of Wheatland High School, class of 1959 and had the honor of being a cheerleader and prom queen during her high school years. She married her high school sweetheart, John Sandefer. They spent 64 beautiful years together loving, caring, and sharing. Rita was a member of the Wheatland United Methodist Church.
Rita was a loving mother to her three daughters, Tammy (Rick) Mize, Terry (Jeff) Beaman, and Angela (Eric) Woodfork. She adored her grandchildren, Megan (James) Halterman, Blake (Erin) Beaman, Marcia (Nick) Combs, Jennifer (Nathan) Byrd, Dalton Mize, Evan Woodfork, and Drew Woodfork. Rita was also blessed with 11 great-grandchildren, including Brayden, Kamryn, Kelsey, and Graycee Halterman, Jeffrey and Raelee Beaman, and Eli, Jensen, and Ruthie Combs, as well as Mason and Mariah Byrd.
In her free time, Rita enjoyed sewing, crocheting, cake decorating, and enjoyed watching IU basketball and the St. Louis Cardinals. She also found joy in canning and enjoyed sharing her family’s genealogy.
Rita worked at Bell Telephone Company, Security Bank, and dedicating her time as a homemaker and caring for her family. She was a symbol of self sacrifice.
A private family memorial will be held at a later date in memory of Rita. In remembrance of Rita, please send any cards, condolences, or memories of Rita to the family.
Rita Jo Ann Sandefer will be deeply missed by her loving family and friends.
Simple Cremation Evansville is entrusted with care.
Dave Mills says
Grieving with you, Angela and extended family! Much love and prayers from your Trilogy family!
Michele says
Terry and Jenny. You are in my heart right now. Prayers for yoy and all your family❤️❤️
Raquel (Kelly) Carrington Simon says
Oh my dear Terry, Angie, John and family. It was heartbreaking to hear of Rita’s passing. I am holding you and your family close in my thoughts and prayers. I know that my momma was there to meet her on the welcome committee in Heaven. Praying that you find comfort in your memories and a peace and comfort that surpasses all human understanding. Love you all.