Rita Willard Camp

Rita Sue W. Camp (March 14, 1947 - September 12, 2026) grew up in Christiansburg, VA. Her parents were Sam and Katie Nolley Willard. She is survived by her sister, Lynn W. Ward (James), brothers, Garry (Rita) and Barry (Betty-Jo) Willard; and brother-in-law, Jack Camp (JoAnn). Nieces and nephews, Kim W. Mietus (Ray), Brad Ward, Kelly V. Rodgers (Danny), Denise V. Tawney, Karen V. Adams (Mike), Terry Michael Vangelos (Terri), Travis (Elizabeth) Willard, and John (Lauren) Willard.

She was predeceased by her parents; a special aunt, Helen N. Palmer; husbands, John O'Rourke (the love of her life) and Keith Camp; and her beloved "Toto."

A pretty little curly, blonde headed girl with a beautiful voice - Rita was frequently asked to sing solos at her small, rural Methodist Church and other public events during her youth. Even though her memory failed her in many ways, her ability to recall the words to those lovely gospel songs brought much comfort to her family in her final days.

Rita married Jackie Walters and left Christiansburg after graduating high school in 1965. She began administrative assistant work for Black & Decker, Braniff Airlines, and the Armed Forces Council. The bulk of her very successful professional career was spent in Washington, D.C. as a lobbyist for Phillip Morris and Kraft Foods. Rita always enjoyed staying at "The Willard" hotel when congress was in session.

An avid reader, Rita was also a great fan of UNC basketball, professional tennis, country and beach music. She and dear friend Denise Snodgrass traveled to many, many Eagles concerts. She also loved her Virginia Beach home and lived just steps away from the Atlantic Ocean prior to moving to Denver in 2014.

Rita battled vascular dementia for more than 5 years. The family extends many thanks to Commonwealth Senior Living - Christiansburg and Medi Hospice (141 E. Main St, Suite 500, Pulaski, VA 24301) for taking great care of Rita in the Sweet Memories unit these last 3 years.

A private family service will be held in Virginia Beach at a later date.