Rita L. Kephart
Dec. 30. 1939 – Jan. 28, 2026
Kephart
Rita L. Kephart, 86, formerly of Bellwood, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, late Wednesday evening at Hilltop Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Altoona. She was born in Altoona, one of 13 children of the late Clarence E. and Vema M. (Shock) Benner.
On Oct. 10, 1964, she married Howard J. “Keppy” Kephart at Fifth Avenue Methodist Church, Altoona. He preceded her in death on Feb. 13, 2025.
She is survived by her two children, Georgetta B. (Jim) Scales of Mount Airy, Md., and James (Lisa) Kephart of Altoona; her grandson, Brady Scales; and granddaughter, Devin (Tim) Craig; and a sister, Leona Swope of Altoona.
She was preceded in death by 11 brothers and sisters.
Rita was a graduate of Altoona High School and attended the former Calvary United Methodist Church, Bellwood.
She enjoyed car rides with her beloved husband, Keppy, which often included a stop for ice cream. For many years, she would enjoy daily extended lunchtimes at a local restaurant with her family and friends, earning her the honor of a sandwich being named for her. She was an avid listener and fan of Jim Reeves, Elvis and Christmas music.
Rita’s greatest joy was spending time with all of her family and friends.
Friends will be received from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at Jon C. Russin Funeral Home Inc., Bellwood. A service to celebrate her life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home, with Pastor Stan Gill officiating.
russinfuneralhome.com