Rita Ann Harrison Karlinsey

February 18, 1954 – May 30, 2026

Rita Ann Harrison Karlinsey was born on February 18, 1954, to Helen and Vern Harrison in Emblem, Wyoming. She grew up on the family farm, where she received an education not only from her parents, but also from the lessons of hard work, determination, and self-reliance that farm life provided.

From a young age, Rita developed a wide range of practical skills. She could drive a beet truck, ride a motorcycle, tend cattle, plant crops, and grow an abundant garden. She carried those values and abilities with her throughout her life.

Rita graduated from Greybull High School and later earned a bachelor’s degree in education. Although she never had a classroom of her own, she used her education to teach her four wonderful children—Kaylan (Rachel), Eric, Stephanie (Mike) , and Douglas (Andrea)—and her grandchildren, Derrick, Zach, Vaughan, Adalyn, Christopher, Dylan, Connor, Brielle, and Isabella, And her great-grandchil Liam the lessons of life and the Gospel of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

On October 30, 1976, Rita married Kay Karlinsey in the Ogden Temple. Together they built a beautiful life and created a legacy of love that spans nearly 50 years and will continue through their children, grandchildren, and great-grandson.

Rita was a wonderfully talented and creative person. She was an exceptional cook, an accomplished crafter, and enjoyed playing both the piano and the accordion. One of Rita’s greatest joys was baking for the people she loved. Her family will remember her every time they prepare one of her many treasured recipes.

Rita passed away unexpectedly at her home in Petersburg, Texas, on May 30, 2026, with her husband, Kay, by her side.

She is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 50 years; her four children; nine grandchildren; one great-grandson; her sister; and a host of dear friends and loved ones.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 20, at 10:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Lovell. Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing beginning at 9:00 a.m. prior to the service.

Thank you, Rita, for teaching us what unconditional love looks like. Thank you for your generosity, your strength, your compassion, and your beautiful heart.

You were deeply loved. You will be deeply missed. And you will never be forgotten.