Rita Wilson

Rita Wilson, 68, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 20, 2025, at Sequoyah East Nursing Center in Roland, Oklahoma. Born on April 21, 1957, in Bakersfield, California, she was the cherished daughter of Tom and Edna Bias. Rita dedicated much of her career to the furniture industry, working in upholstery at Sendee Sales Furniture Factory and Ayer’s Furniture. In her younger years, she enjoyed playing softball, and in later life, she found joy in nurturing her garden and spending time with her grandchildren. Rita will be remembered for her unwavering positivity and her kindness to all.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Steve Wilson; her two children, James Martin and his wife Tina of Fort Smith, and Jeremy Wilson and his wife Crystal of Sallisaw; eleven grandchildren, Emily, Conner, Jessica, Dillon, Johnathan, Kaitlyn, Sam, Weston, Alexa, Wyatt, and Alana; eight great-grandchildren, Sidney, Kaylynn, MacKenzie, Amara, Braden, Ryann, Hayden, and Mason; one brother, David Bias; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends, including Vince Folsom, Kay Bigot, Cora Griffin, Bill Taylor, and Cindy and Farrell McGehee.

Rita is preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Edna Bias; one grandchild, Cody Martin; and one brother, James Bias.

A memorial service will take place at Fort Smith National Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. Family and friends are invited to join for a meal at Western Sizzlin’ following the service. Cremation is under the thoughtful direction of Lewis Funeral Chapel.

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