Rita Mae (King) Drue passed away on December 14, 2015 at the age of 89 due to complications from Alzheimer’s Disease. Her place of birth was Merchantville, New Jersey on February 13, 1926 to the late George and Genevieve King.

She worked first as a telephone operator and then a secretary in various establishments for many years. At age 50, Rita went back to school and became a licensed practical nurse working at Riverside Hospital in Columbus Ohio. After retirement, she continued her career as a private duty nurse providing end of life care.

Rita was active person who enjoyed bowling, movies, cards, and dancing all her life. She had an unquenchable zest for life and loved to joke with others. Her generosity with family and friends will be remembered always.

Preceding her in death are her brothers, George and Eugene King; sisters Margaret Grady and Jeanne Strout. Rita is survived by children Ed Drue, Sheri (Evan) Schneider; grandchildren Jason Adams, Morgan (Steve Orr) Schneider, Steve Drue, Jen Drue; great-grandson Amory Lee-Adams.

There will be a Celebration of Life on September 10, 2016 from 2:30 PM to 4 PM at Big Walnut Shelterhouse, 5000 E. Livingston Ave., Columbus, OH 43228 .

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial gifts to the Alzheimers Association. http://alz.org