Rita J. Boydstun

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Rita Joan Boydstun, who departed this life on Sunday, July 27, 2025. Born on August 19, 1951, in Checotah, Oklahoma, Rita was the beloved daughter of Ira E. and Thelma M. (Hudspeth) Carter. She grew up in Oklahoma, attending public schools before graduating with the Muskogee Central High School Class of 1969. Rita continued her education at Connors State College, demonstrating a lifelong love for learning and personal growth. On July 1, 1978, she married Dudley R. Boydstun in Muskogee, Oklahoma, beginning a partnership marked by devotion and shared joy. Throughout her career, Rita was a dedicated and reliable presence in the community. She worked at the Green Country Drive-In and lent her skills to City Roofing and Muskogee Roofing, earning the respect of colleagues and customers alike. Later, she served as an accountant for Rural Water District #5, where her diligence and integrity left a lasting impression. Rita retired in 2018, concluding a career defined by hard work and commitment. A devoted member of Keefeton Trinity Southern Baptist Church, Rita’s faith was central to her life. She was also an active participant in TOPS, where she found camaraderie and lasting friendships. Rita was known for her warmth, her generous spirit, and the way she nourished those she loved—especially through her cooking, which brought her great joy and became a cherished tradition at family gatherings. Family was the heart of Rita’s world. She cherished every moment spent with loved ones, finding happiness in their company and comfort in their support. Her legacy lives on in the memories she created, the example she set, and the love she shared. Rita Joan Boydstun will be remembered for her kindness, unwavering faith, and the deep affection she held for her family and friends. She leaves behind all who were fortunate to know her, inspired by her life and grateful for the time shared. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ira and Thelma Carter; siblings, Wilburn Carter, Ed Carter, and Jo Rhyne; in-laws, Frank and Faye Deane Boydstun. Rita is survived by her husband, Dudley, of the home; brother-in-law, Max Boydstun and wife Darla; sisters-in-law, Vicki Powelski and husband Gary, Susan Lewis and husband Bob, all of Muskogee; along with many loving nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. Rita’s life will be celebrated at Keefeton Trinity Southern Baptist Church with Pastor Dean Haley and Jason Snyder officiating. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Muskogee. Pallbearers will be Jason Snyder, Jaden Snyder, Brystol Allen, Brent Dunlap, Larry Moore, Darrin Allen, Dustin Van Voast, and Frank D. Boydstun III. Honorary pallbearers will be Jerry Field, Tucker Carter, Jacob Snyder, Terry Standifer, and Greg Carter.

Rita J. Boydstun

August 19, 1951 - July 27, 2025