Rita Mae Arndt

Rita Mae Arndt, 79, of Sedalia, MO, passed away on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Legendary Nursing and Rehabilitation in Marshall, MO. She was born on October 4, 1946, in Blythsville, AR, the daughter of Roy and Stella (Griffin) Barber, who preceded her in death.

Rita was known for her love of puzzles, amassing an impressive collection that she assembled and disassembled countless times over the years. She cherished spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, showering them with affection and attention. She was exceptionally neat, organized, and independent, traits she took great pride in. Rita began each day with her morning coffee and maintained a mostly vegetarian diet, with the occasional indulgence in bacon. She delighted in simple pleasures like cheese and crackers, orange soda, fried cabbage, and ice cream sandwiches. Her meticulousness extended to both her living space and appearance, and she was always impeccably put together.

Rita made her home on Redman Ave. for many years before her health declined about seven years ago, prompting a move to assisted living. Remarkably, she made a full recovery within a few months and continued to live independently for the remainder of her years there. She exceeded expectations in caring for herself and remained self-reliant in every way possible within the facility.

Rita maintained a lifelong relationship with God and, in recent years, deepened her faith and spiritual understanding.

She is survived by her daughter, Linda Arndt; six grandchildren, Hailey Harris, Chris Davis, Katie White, William Deibel, Lani Russell, and Emily Russell; and two great-grandchildren, Mavory Renfrow and Eli Harris. Rita also found joy in the company of her dear friend Vicki and Vicki's daughter, Lucy, who were like family to her.

Besides her parents, Rita was preceded in death by two children, Kimberly Deibel and Amos Roberts Jr.

A celebration of life gathering of family and friends will be from 1:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. on Monday, January 5, 2026, at Rea Funeral Chapel, 3510 W. 16th St., Sedalia, MO.

Arrangements are in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.