In loving memory of

Rita Diane Vallery
August 3, 1941 - February 12, 2019

Rita Diane Vallery died on February 12th at The households of Bethany in Story City, IA. Rita was born to Maynard and Ruth (Holcomb) Ramge of Plattsmouth, NE. She married J. Larry Vallery on June 21, 1959 at the Liberty EUB church near Plattsmouth. The couple farmed for 3 years then Larry entered the ministry. Together they served churches in central Nebraska then in north central Missouri while Larry attended seminary in Kansas City. Following graduation, the couple moved to Iowa serving churches at Merrill & Adaville, Mason City, Britt, Greenfield and Charles City.
In 1999 they retired and moved to Ames, IA. Rita was a devoted wife and mother who worked side by side with her pastor husband. She was very active in the United Methodist Women organization serving in local, district, conference and jurisdictional positions. She held the position of Iowa Conference UMW president from 2013 to 2016.
Rita is survived by her husband, Larry, four children: Diane Hawbaker and husband Devon of Dallas Center, IA, Deborah Thomas and husband Deric of Manly, IA, David and wife Dawn of Hampton, IA and Denise Sterling and husband Todd of Lee's Summit, MO. Along with 15 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren, as well as helping to raise 14 foster children through the years. One foster son, Benjamin Gunderson and partner Lucas, who is mutually part of the family.
A gathering of friends and family will be 4-6:00 p.m. Friday, Feb 15. at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care, 414 Lincoln Way, Ames, with a 11:00 a.m. funeral Saturday, February 16, First United Methodist Church 516 Kellogg Ave, Ames. Burial will be at Pleasant View Cemetery, Plattsmouth, Nebraska at a later date.
Memorial may be directed to First United Methodist Church of Ames, or Iowa Conference Iowa United Methodist Women.
Online condolences may be directed to: www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com

Tributes

Carol Ives wrote on Mar 1, 2019:

"Remembering Rita and thinking of the whole Vallery family including Ben. May your many precious memories bring you comfort. "

Patti Noethe wrote on Feb 18, 2019:

"My heart is saddened to hear of this loss. Hugs and prayers to all of the Vallery family, especially Denise."

Colleen McRoberts wrote on Feb 16, 2019:

"Rita taught me a lot about what it means to be the wife of a pastor and to value being born in an era where women are free to pursue their true vocations. Her determination, will to work, and "It's the right thing to do" attitude meant a lot to me."

De Streeter wrote on Feb 16, 2019:

"I am so sorry to hear about the death of Rita. She was an inspiration to me over the years! Such a kind and gracious let's get this done person! She will be missed. May God bless you Larry and all your family. De Streeter "

Rita Carter wrote on Feb 15, 2019:

"Dear Larry and family, Rita has a special place in my heart not only because we shared the same first name and served together on Conference United Methodist Women whole she was President, but also because she was such a wonderful, giving mentor and friend to me and to so many others. She stands out as a loving, faithful, Christian woman whom I feel blessed to have known. I will try to live in a way that honors Rita?s life! Rita Carter"

Marilyn Burch wrote on Feb 15, 2019:

"I met Rita through United Methodist Women and showed me the wonderful spirit and shear joy she had for the work of women in the church. My prayers are with you all and I know that God's loving arms surround you with peace. Marilyn Burch"

Phil Carver wrote on Feb 15, 2019:

"Dear Larry and family, I remember Rita's passion for and faithfulness to United Methodist Women and the many lives who were blessed by their ministries of mission and justice. May God's love enfold you in this time of sorrow. Grace and peace, Phil Carver "

Lisa Icenbice Lamb wrote on Feb 15, 2019:

"Dear Pastor Vallery and family: We wish to express our sincere sympathy at this time to you all. Rita was a wonderful person, dedicated to the work of our church here in Greenfield and the UMW. Her bright spirit, giggle and smile will be missed. Love to you, Todd and Lisa (Icenbice) Lamb"

Ann Arndorfer wrote on Feb 14, 2019:

"We offer our sympathy for you, Larry, Denise and family. Rita set a great example for all of us as she followed Christ. She will be remembered for her love and friendship to all -never judging or discriminating. Prayers for all. Ann, Jerry and Barb Arndorfer"

Elizabeth Shafer Sanderman wrote on Feb 14, 2019:

"Larry and family: I am Elizabeth Shafer Sanderman (Mel and Gen Shafer's daughter). I have such fond memories of you and Rita. Dad and Mom thought the world of you and I loved hearing their stories. I also loved our times at Milford Camp. My sympathy and love to all of you at this time."

Ona VanHeiden wrote on Feb 14, 2019:

"So sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers are with your family."

Sicily Canny wrote on Feb 14, 2019:

"Words cannot describe the kindness and love that Rita had expressed to me over the years. Her service to both the UMW and the choir at FUMC will never be forgotten.Good work faithful servant, you have earned your rest."

Barbara Hardy wrote on Feb 13, 2019:

"Ms. Rita is singing and dancing with the Angels! Our condolences to you and your family. May your faith in knowing who sustains you and the strength Ms. Rita left you with, as well as all the memories guide you through the journey. Peace be with you. Barbara and James Hardy "

Cathy and Lee Webb wrote on Feb 13, 2019:

"Larry and Rita were some of our first pastor friends when we came back to Iowa from seminary. Rita was a wonderful mentor and guide to me as a new pastors spouse. She also set an excellent example of being Christ to others. She opened my eyes and heart even more to others. Her love and passion for missions and United Methodist Women inspired many. Well done, good and faithful servant. Catht Webb"