Rita Marie Harper, 78, of Keosauqua, passed away Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, Illinois surrounded by the love of family.

A celebration of life will be held at the Life Event Center at Behner Funeral Home in Fairfield on Saturday, August 1, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. A brief prayer service at begin at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Blessing Hospice & Palliative Care Fund.

 Rita was born March 2, 1948 in Ottumwa, the daughter of Leonard and Pat (McCleary) Curtis. She married her high school sweetheart Robert “Bob” Harper, June 4, 1966. He preceded her in death September 5, 2018. 

Rita and Bob moved to Texas in the early 1970s where she began her career as an elementary school teacher and earned her master's in education. Following retirement, they moved back to Iowa. Rita enjoyed quilting, gardening, reading and watching the Dallas Cowboys.

Those left to honor her memory include her son, Doug (Laura) Harper of Allen, Texas; grandson, Kai; siblings, Barbara Bates, Terry (Myrna) Curtis, Bob Curtis; sister-in-law Karin (David) Goosey; and many loving nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. 

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and spoiled dogs (Rosie & Susie).