Rita Jane (McWilliams) Banning, died on May 12, 2026, in Fort Myers, Florida, after a short illness. She was 82.

Rita Jane leaves her son, Benjamin Banning of Pawtucket, Rhode Island. She also leaves her beloved grandchildren Matthew Blom, and his wife Jane, of Winooski, Vermont and Jessica Blom, of West Granby, Connecticut. She also leaves several extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly. Rita Jane lived in several states throughout her life and traveled the world. No matter where she was on Earth, she always found a community and loved connecting with others.

Rita Jane was born Nov. 1, 1943 in Milltown, Indiana to Billy and Mary (Atz) McWilliams. She grew up in a loving home surrounded by grandparents and cousins.

She graduated from Milltown High School in 1961 and was accepted to Purdue University, where she studied special education. Rita Jane worked as a speech therapist for 25 years before changing her career in 1989 when she became a tour manager for Collette Vacations, which allowed her the opportunity to travel the world.

Besides her parents, she also was predeceased by her daughter, Rachel Blom, who was the light of her life.

Rita Jane took pride in planning holiday celebrations and parties that entailed cooking for over 100 people. She loved swimming, writing her weekly chronicle, learning, volunteering, gardening, traveling and attending Sunday mass at the First Christian Church in Lehigh Acres, Florida. Rita's colorful personality, generosity and love for life will be missed by all who knew her.

The family would like to thank Paula Book, Sheila Davis, Robin Grace and all of her friends in the Carriage Village Community for their love and support.

Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rita Jane Banning's name to Boston Children’s Hospital: 401 Park Drive, Suite 602, Boston MA 02215 | https://giving.childrenshospital.org/