Rita Norton

Rita Fern Norton, age 77 of Rosedale, OK passed away Wednesday, January 23, 2019 following a lengthy illness. She was born January 3, 1942, in Garfield, New Mexico. Rita was the oldest of three children born to Lawrence Edmond Elkins and Mary Dorothy (Short) Elkins. Rita grew up in Rosedale and attended Wayne Schools. At the age of 16, she married the love of her life, Charles Ray Norton. They were married on Nov. 9, 1958 in Gainesville, TX. When Rita and Charles first married, times were tough but their love for one another was strong. They lived in Ada for three years before moving to Yukon. Rita got her GED and started attending El Reno Junior College. She then continued her education, graduating from the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor's degree and later with her Masters in Social Studies. For five years she taught school in Yukon before she and Charles moved to Rosedale in 1984. While living in Rosedale she taught school at Lexington for 20 years until she retired in 2004. Rita taught both social studies and art. She was awarded several times Teacher of the Year, Who's Who of American Teachers and was a National Board Certified Art Teacher. While living in Rosedale, she was a member of the First Baptist Church and served as the Sunday School Director for many years. Throughout her life, Rita enjoyed collecting antique oil lamps and other antique collectables. She was an avid reader and she and Charles enjoyed traveling, especially to American Historic Places. She was a wonderful wife and mother, and she loved spoiling her grandchildren. She was preceded in death by: Parents, Lawrence and Mary Elkins. She is survived by: Husband of 60 years, Charles Norton of the home in Rosedale. Daughter, Janet Little and husband Roland of Wayne, Sister, Judy Brooks and husband Rick of Blanchard, Brother, Dale Elkins and wife Carolyn of Rosedale, Two grandchildren, Julie Gentry and husband Mike of Purcell, Krista Boles and husband Justin of Rosedale. Three great grandchildren, Rhett, Ozzie and Addison and one more on the way. Also several nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends.