Rita Faye Spiers Ladner, born January 1, 1954, on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, passed away May 18th, 2026, surrounded by family and friends.

Rita is survived by her devoted and loving husband of 54 years whom she often called by his full name, Wayne Edward; her son Jason Ladner (Steffanie); her daughter Andrea Ritter (Geoff); and the lights of her life who call her MeMe: Trey, Violet, Ben, Harper, and Harris. Other surviving family members include three brothers Bennie, Greg and Michal and one sister, Marilyn. Rita was preceded in death by brothers Joe and E.J. and by her mother, Hilda Bennett.

A 1971 graduate of Harrison Central High School, Rita built a life marked by hard work, faith, and service. She worked for BellSouth, Harrison County Human Resources, District Area on Aging, and retired from the Mississippi Medicaid Department, earning respect for her diligence, sharp wit, and practical wisdom.

Rita was known for her servant’s heart, Southern sass, and fierce determination. Whether helping raise her younger sister, advocating to have her road paved, serving as PTA president, or opening her home to family and friends, she gave generously of herself.

She was a gifted cook whose gumbo earned honors at the Biloxi Seafood Festival and whose kitchen was the heart of countless family gatherings. Her home was a place of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.

A faithful member of her church, Rita joyfully served through children’s ministry and Vacation Bible School, always making learning fun and memorable.

Rita will be remembered as a loving wife, nurturing mother, doting grandmother, loyal friend, and a woman of deep faith, humor, strength, and generosity whose legacy will live on in all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of Rita's life will be held at New Hope Baptist Church on Landon Road, on Saturday, May 23, 2026, with visitation beginning at 11:00AM followed by her memorial service at 12:00PM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Gideons International through the New Hope Baptist Church, 17430 Landon Rd, Gulfport, MS.

Riemann Family Funeral Home in Gulfport is honored to serve her family during this time.