Rita Diane Shalton (Dickerson)

The world lost our beloved mother and friend Rita Dickerson Shalton of Independence, Missouri, on September 4, 2022. She was born on February 24, 1944, in Hayti, Missouri.

Rita is survived by her two daughters, Wendy Shalton Dye (Jimi Dye) of Independence, Missouri, and Angela Shalton Bernard of Independence, Missouri. Four grandchildren, Jake Dye (Megan), Cassi Dye, Michael Bernard, and Mateo Bernard. Great Grandsons Cooper Pugh and soon-to-be Cade Dye. And her brother Wayne Dickerson(Maria) of Yorktown, Virginia, and many nieces and nephews. Rita was preceded in death by the love of her life and husband, Gary Shalton of Independence, Missouri. As well as her parents, Clifford and Juanita Dickerson, and brothers Clifford Dickerson, Richard Dickerson, and Bruce Dickerson.

Everyone who knew Rita felt her giving nature and never left empty-handed. A little bit of a spitfire, she grew up with four older brothers and learned to hold her own when she needed to. She was called Grandma by many friends and never met a stranger. She was famous for some of her southern cooking, which was always enough for a crowd. Her humor kept her family laughing and brought joy to many family celebrations. Rita will be especially missed by her grandchildren, who were her pride and joy. Rita retired in 2011 from the internal revenue service and spent her free time reading, playing computer games, going to casinos, and traveling with her daughters. Rita loved fishing and going to Branson whenever she got the chance. She was a huge Chiefs fan and enjoyed watching Sunday football.

A memorial service of her life will be held at the Carson Speaks Funeral Home in Independence, Missouri, on September 17, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. Grave Side Services will immediately follow at Mount Grove cemetery. The family will be hosting a luncheon afterward at the American Legion in Independence, Missouri, on 40 highway.