Rita Sylvanus, age 80 of Arcadia, Florida passed away on May 16, 2022 in her home. Rita was formerly of Burlington, Iowa. She was born on August 7, 1941, in Leominster, Massachusetts to George and Rita Boudreau.

After her mother's passing she went to Iowa where she was raised by her Aunt Cecile and Uncle Leo Lemon. They were wonderful parents to her and raised her as their own.  She was blessed to have them as parents.  She grew up in rural Iowa, and graduated from Duncombe High School.

Rita enjoyed bowling and she bowled on leagues for several years. She also enjoyed playing cards with her friends. She was an avid gardener and had many flowers and shrubs around her house. She was particularly fond of her Rose of Sharon and her Bleeding Hearts, which came from her father's garden. She was an active member of WOTM for many years, serving as Senior Regent, for a time.  She also loved butterflies and had a large collection of butterfly pins.

Rita was a strong, fiercely independent woman. She worked hard to provide for her children. She was a welder for and retired from Murry/Tuthill.

After she retired she got into Antiquing, buying at auctions and selling at Flea Markets. She started spending winters in Florida in 2014 and move permanently to Toby's RV Resort in Arcadia, Florida.  She loved her Toby's family and was a friend to many.  She enjoyed the monthly activities, especially the pot-luck dinners. She also enjoyed cruising around in her golf cart.

Rita is survived by her daughters, Carol Nichols of Burlington, Iowa, Sheila (Kent) Delzell of Morning Sun, Iowa, and Marcia (Kris) Hill of West Burlington, Iowa. Also one brother, Steve (Connie) Lemon; Sister Irene (John) Malsbenden of Colchester, Connecticut; six adored grandchildren, Sidney, Jessie, Kenzie, Josh, Tyler, and Brandon. Also one Great Granddaughter, Alice; along with many nieces and nephews.

Rita was preceded in death by her four parents; brothers George Smith and Fred Lemon; one sister Claire Cote and her faithful canine companion and "bestest boy" Jasper.

Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes, Arcadia, Florida.

A celebration of Rita's life and scattering of ashes will be held at a later date, and according to her wishes.

Online condolences may be made at wwwpongerkaysgrady.com