Rita Mae O'Connor

Rita Mae O'Connor, affectionately known to many as GiGi, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2025, in Independence, Missouri. Born on February 15, 1948, in Carrollton, Missouri, Rita was a remarkable woman whose spirit and kindness touched everyone she met.

Rita dedicated over 30 years of her professional life to the Jackson County Corrections facility, where her unwavering commitment to her work exemplified her strong character. In addition, she spent several decades selling Avon, sharing beauty and confidence with her community. Rita's adventurous spirit led her to explore various careers, including her time as a private investigator and later as the proud owner of O'Connor Tax Service, where her diligent work ethic shone through every tax season.

Her outgoing personality made her a beloved figure in her community. Known for having an open heart, Rita was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Her friends would often say she had a unique charm, gullible yet fiercely loving traits that endeared her to many. Rita never met a stranger and effortlessly turned them into friends.

In her personal life, Rita found joy in the simple pleasures. She delighted in watching the birds flit about. She was also an avid bowler, and actively participated in numerous bowling leagues at various alleys, creating lasting friendships and cherished memories.

Above all her accomplishments, Rita’s proudest achievement was her family. She poured her love and devotion into those she held dear, creating countless memories that will be cherished forever.

Rita is survived by her children, Jill Dykstra (Michael), Jackie Burec, Jason Burec (Thresea), Dedra Serda (Daniel) and Douglas O’Connor; sisters, Cindy Matthues, Marcia Drennon, Shelley Grimpo (David) and Lori Wagaman (Marion); 12 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren, Jennifer and Derrek Hurshman, Evan Williams, Hailey Pool, Nathan Hurshman, Dylan Pool, Christian Hurshman, Tristyn Hurshman, Kai Hurshman, Tamara and Seth Goedeke, Fallon Goedeke, Jason Burec Jr., Justin and Brandi Burec, Garrett Burec, Layla Burec, Richard and Samantha Edmondson, Andre Wilkinson, Rita-ann Edmondson and Jennifer Wersching, Michelle Gould, David Martin, Wesley Judy and Joeleen Denent, Cristian Serda, Serena Serda, Miranda Serda and Marisa Serda.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Michael “Mike”; parents, Charles and Lella “Margaret” (Frazier) Bolinger; and great- grandchildren, Makayla Pool and Lillian Judy.

A celebration of Rita's extraordinary life will take place at Speaks Suburban Chapel, located at 18020 East 39th St S, Independence, MO 64055. The Funeral Service will be held at 3:00 PM on May 12, 2025, Visitation will follow from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Rita Mae O'Connor was a bright light in the lives of so many, and her memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of calling her a friend.