Rita Alton (Cates), 81, of Vincennes, IN, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025.
Born on October 8, 1943, to Sam Cates Jr. and June (Perry) Cates, Rita was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She graduated from Monroe City High School in 1961 and married her high school sweetheart, Rex Alton. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and hard work, raising their children, Angie and Avery, while operating a farm near Monroe City, then building and operating their businesses near Saint Thomas. She was a loyal support and strength to Rex in all his endeavors and cared for him through years of health challenges.
Rita was a devoted mother who always supported and encouraged Angie and Avery in all they did. She took great pride in watching them grow and build their own lives. She was the mom who drove the friends and showed up with food for all at practices. She truly shined in her role as a grandmother. When her first grandchildren, Jasper and Skylar, were growing up near Atlanta, she and Rex never missed a milestone—driving seven hours to celebrate birthdays, holidays, and every special event in between. They would always arrive with a trunk full of Knox County’s finest farm produce, including sweet corn and watermelons. She was thrilled when her youngest grandson, Alius was born and raised near her where she cherished
A gifted cook, Rita was known for her homemade noodles, vegetable soup, and famous Jell-O salads, bringing comfort and joy to countless family gatherings. She was an avid knitter, teaching herself the craft while expecting her first child. Her passion for knitting led her to travel with friends across the Midwest, learning new techniques and sharing her love of the craft. She was part of a local and regional knitting community where she made many beautiful friendships. The family has a voluminous collection of all the beautiful knitwear she lovingly made.
Rita had a competitive spirit and loved playing games, especially euchre. She was a skilled player who didn’t enjoy losing but always brought warmth and laughter to every game night.
Rita is survived by her children, Angie (Tom) Haimes and Avery (Kayleigh) Alton; her grandchildren, Jasper and Skylar Haimes and Alius Alton; her brother, Hal Cates; her nephew Jason ( ) Cates and niece Amanda (DJ) Halter; great nephews Dax and Lincoln Halter and great niece Susie Cates.
Her kindness, dedication, and unwavering love for her family and friends will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew her. Rita was always concerned for others’ well-being. She was compassionate and generous, helping many family members and friends when she could.
Services to honor and celebrate Rita’s life will be announced at a later date.
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