Rita Whitbey

Rita R. Whitbey, 76, of Morrilton, AR passed away on July 16, 2025, at her home. Rita was born on October 13, 1948, in Morrilton, Arkansas, daughter of Clarence and Beatrice (Beck) Hartman. Rita was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Morrilton, taught religious education and attended Adoration for many years, and had a deep faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She held a variety of jobs, but one of her fondest was babysitting dozens of children over the years. Rita had great joy in being able to care for her parents and cherished her time as a wife, mom, sister, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She loved dancing, bargain shopping, and eating at Golden Corral. Rita is survived by her husband of 57 years, Bill Whitbey of Morrilton; daughters Brenda Bunker and husband, Randy of Cabot; Karen Smith and husband, Kevin of Cabot; and son Chris Whitbey of Morrilton; brothers Clarence (CW) Hartman of Texas, Gerald (Jerry) Hartman of Mabelvale, and sister, Carol Shewmake of Morrilton; 8 grandchildren (Katie Hamilton, Tabitha Davis, Justin Whitbey, Lexy Danner, Broady Whitbey, Carson Whitbey, Jennifer Siebe, and Gabriel Smith); 2 chosen grandchildren (Paizlee and Cannon Collins); and 7 great-grandchildren (Carli, Hayzen, Rainlee, Paxton, Maverick, Madden, and Estelle) and a host of extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Bea Hartman, son, Kevin Whitbey, and great-grandson, Memphis Whitbey. Per Rita’s request, she is being cremated. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 26th, 2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Stephen Hart officiating. Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery. Family visitation will be an hour before the service at the church with a Rosary following at 9:30. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Arkansas Children’s Hospital. The family wishes to express thanks to all who visited and prayed, Hospice Home Care, nurse Dee, nurse’s aide Tiffany, and special thanks to friend and caregiver Christine Ashby. Arrangements are by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton.

Rita Whitbey

October 13, 1948 - July 16, 2025