Rita Sponseller, 68, of Centralia passed away Sunday, November 14, 2021, at St. Louis University Hospital. Rita was a true blessing to her beloved family. She graciously gave her all to make sure they were cared for, supported, and loved and they all knew there wasn’t anything she wouldn’t do for them. Rita was an amazing hostess, making sure to bring everyone together to capture important opportunities to make cherished memories. She was the very best grandma and who liked to find a cozy spot to read to her grandchildren. Rita had a heart of gold and her legacy of caring, kindness and love will continue with all those she knew and loved.
A graveside service will be held at 12:30 p.m. Friday, November 19, 2021, at Elmwood Cemetery in Centralia with Pastor Seth Baltzell officiating. Memorial may be made in Rita’s honor to the Irvin Macz Funeral Home to assist the family with expenses. Online condolences and memories of Rita may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia is privileged to be assisting the family of Rita Sponseller with arrangements.
She married the love of her life, William M. “Bill” Sponseller on September 27, 1979, in Elgin, Illinois and he survives her in Centralia. Along with her devoted husband of 42 years, Bill Sponseller, Rita is survived by her devoted family, mother Gerre Arney of Centralia; children Traci Miller and husband Mark of Centralia, and William “Billy” Sponseller and wife Tiffany of Dix; grandchildren Tiphani Cook and husband Brandon, Jacob Miller, Brittani Miller, Brayden Miller, Bryson Miller, and Arizona Sponseller; and many more extended family and friends.
She was born on January 14, 1953, the daughter of George “Ward” and Gerre (Huffstutler) Gunter in Christopher, Illinois. Rita was preceded in death by her father George “Ward” Gunter; stepfather Robert Arney; sister Cheryl Wright and husband Troy; brother Doug Gunter; and father-in-law Marvin Sponseller.
