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.
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14 Condolence(s)
Erena Toney
Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Dear Wayne, I was blessed to know, lovely, lively, beautiful Rita. She enriched my life in so many, many ways. I join you in mourning her loss. May YAH ease your grief! May you find solace in memories!
Jim and Nancy Treat
Thursday, November 13, 2025
Sending prayers and love to and yours Unc. Love you, Jim and Nancy.
Gail Horton Feese
Thursday, November 13, 2025
Wayne and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers for you all.
Jane and Corby Lard
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Rita was a beautiful and kind person and a loved member of our family. She will be missed.
Christine Magee
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
I'm grateful for all of the time Rita poured into the Adventure Club. She was an amazing teacher who inspired me to sing and love the arts. I still know and love most of the songs. Wayne I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope you take comfort in knowing she is dancing and singing in heaven.
Danielle Magee
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Wayne and Family,
Condolences. May God give you peace during this difficult time. Rita was a beautiful person and I was blessed to know her.
With Love, Danielle
Carolyn Drewry Maielua
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
I can not express how sorry I am for the loss of Aunt Rita. She was kind from the moment I first met her. Uncle Wayne I love you so much and are praying for you.
Cathy & Greg Lovett
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Our deepest sympathies to you and your family. Love you!
James and Jeri White
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Our deepest sympathy
Sheila Burns
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Sweet Uncle Wayne...I am so sorry to hear about Aunt Rita...what a shock. I am also very thankful for the time we got to spend with you both this summer. I love you and again, I'm so sorry for your loss.
Sheila
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Wayne & family you all are in my prayers!! Praying for peace & comfort to you!! So sorry for your loss!! Love Sheila
Robin Crow
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Wayne I am so sorry to hear of Rita’s passing. She is walking the streets of gold with her new body. Prayers for you❤️
Nina Baysinger
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Deepest sympathy
Wesley and Loretta Smith
Friday, November 7, 2025
Wayne I'm very sorry for your loss.