Ritha J. Jones

Ritha J. Jones - age 78 of Columbia, MO passed away Thursday evening, January 22, 2026, at University Hospital in Columbia, Missouri. Ritha was born on November 10, 1947, the daughter of Everett  and Dora Mae (Sharrah) Souders in Jamesport, MO. She grew up in Jamesport and later lived in Colorado, Washington and California before retiring to Columbia. She worked as a claims adjuster for Midwest Insurance. Ritha loved her church, Grace Bible Church and her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She loved to sing and liked to play golf. She deeply loved her grandchildren and her dog, Molly. Ritha will be dearly missed by her family and friends. 

Ritha was preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter, Ashley Jones; brothers: Seth Sharrah, Sherman Souders, Alva Souders, and Larry Souders. She is survived by her sons, Tom Jones of Columbia, MO and Lonnie Jones (Georganna) of Columbia, MO; grandchildren: Paige, Gavin, Amanda, Shay and Kelsi; great-grandchildren: Cooper, Emma, Knox, Kinsley, Emmett, Kai, Raegan, Maximus, Walker, Honey, and JoAnn; siblings: Gerald Souders (Donna) of Jamesport, MO, Sherry Souders of Anchorage, AK and Linda Davis (Davey) of Jamesport, MO; nieces, nephews and other extended family members also survive. 
 
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Grace Bible Church in care of the funeral home. A service celebrating Ritha's life will be held at 2:00 PM, Monday, January 26, 2026, at Stith Funeral Home & Crematory in Jamesport. Burial will be at Masonic Cemetery in Jamesport. Arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of Stith Funeral Home in Jamesport (660) 684-6133. Online guestbook at www.stithfamilyfunerals.com 

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