Rita Jean Merchant

  Rita Jean Merchant, 78, passed from this life and entered into the loving arms of Jesus Christ on Sunday, January 26, 2025. Born July 3, 1946, in Abilene, Texas, to the late Buddy and Sue Wagner, Rita grew up with a love for life, family, and faith. She graduated from Wylie High School, where she excelled as an all-state basketball player. A gifted writer, Rita often expressed herself through poetry and working on her novels.

  Above all, Rita loved Jesus and lived her life with an abundance of kindness and compassion. Her children remember her as a wonderful mother who gave them unconditional love, but her care extended far beyond her family. For over 30 years, Rita served as a nurse, touching countless lives with her nurturing spirit and dedication.

  Rita is survived by her beloved children and their spouses: Jonathan and Sherri Merchant, David and Amber Merchant, and Rebecca and Aaron Pruitt. She was the proud grandmother of four grandchildren: Levi, Nathan, Kayla, and Gunner, who brought immense joy to her life. Rita is also survived by her siblings, Roy Wagner, Kathy Anderson, and Don Wagner and spouse, Chris, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

  A funeral service will take place at 2:00 p.m., Monday, February 3, 2025, at Galbreaith Pickard Funeral Chapel, in Weatherford, Texas, with burial to follow at Curtis Cemetery.