Diamond - Rita M. Crowell, 91, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her loved ones on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Rita was born July 5, 1934, in Carthage, Missouri to Gilbert and Hermina Frede.

Rita Frede was united in marriage to Charles J. Crowell on June 13, 1959, in Kansas City, Missouri.

Rita and Charles moved away to Oxnard, California where they raised their nine children. In 1993 they returned home and remained residents of Diamond, Missouri.

Rita is survived by one sister, three sons, six daughters, 44 grandchildren, and 19 great grandchildren.

She will be remembered for her generous heart and kind words.

"Have a good day and a blessed forever" - Rita M. Crowell

Rosary and visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm Thursday, May 7th, 2026, at Ulmer Funeral Home chapel in Carthage, Missouri. A mass service will be held at 11:00 am at St. Peters the Apostle Catholic Church in Joplin, Missouri. Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery in Carthage beside her loving Husband.