Rita Frances Hultquist, 76, of Galesburg, died peacefully Sunday, July 25, 2021, surrounded by her loving family.
Rita was born December 1, 1944 in Galesburg, the daughter of Paul and Mary (Besser) Dougherty. She married William Hultquist on August 22, 1964 in California. Together they had two children, Kimberly and Jeff. They later divorced. Rita is survived by her daughter, Kimberly (Josh) Haynes of Abingdon and Jeff (Patti Callihan) Hultquist of Cameron; two grandchildren, Brandon (Marisa) McCune and Brittani McCune; three great grandchildren, Brooklyn, Branson, and Xander; and her companion of many years, Ken Goodman of Galesburg. Rita is also survived by four brothers, Ed Dougherty of Washington, Bob (Fran) Dougherty of California, John (Martha) Dougherty of Illinois, and Mike Dougherty of Illinois; and two sisters, Mary Cokel of Illinois and Helen Kilby of Illinois. Along with her parents, Rita was preceded in death by two brothers, Jim and Dick; one sister, Patricia Hillier; and one great grandson, Jaxson McCune.
Rita worked in the office at Bob Weaver Buick for many years, later working for Dick and Rick Yemm until her retirement. Rita retired so she could help her daughter Kim with her daycare. She enjoyed going to the river boats and casinos as well as traveling including many trips with her sisters. She enjoyed shopping, watching sports, especially football and college basketball. Most of all she loved to be surrounded by her grandchildren.
Cremation has been accorded. Private services will be held. Burial of cremated remains will be at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the American Cancer Society. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
