of Harrison, AR

March 14, 1941 - November 6, 2025

Rita Lee Drewry (Backer), age 84, of Harrison peacefully entered her heavenly home on Thursday, November 6, 2025 with her husband, Wayne, lovingly by her side. She was born in Hartford, Connecticut on March 14, 1941 to Nathan Lewis Backer and Frances (Brownstein) Backer.

Rita spent her childhood years in Connecticut and later moved to Manhattan, New York as a young adult. There she worked as an interior designer, an occupation perfectly suited to her creativity and eye for beauty. Rita loved reminiscing about her years in the city, sharing colorful stories of working as a coat check attendant and experiencing the excitement and fast pace of Manhattan life.

One of Rita's most defining qualities was her deep compassion for animals. She rescued countless pets over the years, fed strays and believed every animal deserved kindness, gentleness and dignity.

After several years in Manhattan, Rita moved to Monroe, New York where she began attending Calvary Assembly Church. She became actively involved in ministry, teaching the youth group ''Adventure Club'' and sharing her love of music through special songs. Church became not only a place of service, but also where she met the love of her life, Wayne Drewry. The two were married on September 17, 1988 and built a life defined by devotion, companionship and faith.

Rita is preceded in death by her parents and her stepson, Mark Drewry. She is survived by her husband, Wayne of the home; sisters, Aileen Collins of Lakeland, FL and Susan (Lenny) Lacroix of Oxnard, CA; stepson, Tim (Cathy) Drewry of Leslie, AR and a host of cherished nieces, nephews and step-grandchildren who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

A celebration of Rita's life will be announced at a later date and her family looks forward to honoring her beautiful legacy.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Coffman Funeral Home
923 Highway 65 North
Marshall, AR  72650
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com