Rita Kay (Howard) Nichols

Rita Kay Nichols, 77, of Galesburg, IL, formerly of Avon, died peacefully Monday, May 11, 2020.  She was born Thursday, November 12, 1942 (a few minutes after her twin brother Ronald) to Ora and Hattie (Prather) Howard.  She married Garry Nichols on August 19, 1985.

Rita is survived by her son, Mark (Maria) Howard, her daughter, Wendi Drego; 3 grandsons, Jordan and Alexander Watkins and Cliff (Brandy) Hopping; 2 granddaughters Kimberly Stice and Chrissy (Phil) Lambert, as well as 9 great grandchildren and 7 great-great grandchildren; one brother James (Judith) Howard and one sister Patsy Fox.

She was preceded in death by her parents, five brothers six sisters and her husband.

Rita worked at Maytag for 30 years.  She was an avid puzzle solver and loved vintage tv.

In accordance with state and federal guidance on gatherings during the Covid-19 pandemic, the family will not be conducting a public service at this time.  A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Wise Family Funeral Home PO Box 538 Avon, IL 61415 to assist the family with final expenses.  Please sign the online guestbook at www.wisefamilyfuneralhome.com.  Wise Family Funeral Home Avon, IL is in charge of the arrangements.