Rita Jewell (Harrington) Blakemore began her earthly journey on August 29, 1947, and on February 12, 2026, was called to her heavenly reward. She was the eldest of four children born to Bishop John R. Harrington Sr. and Missionary Bernadine E. Harrington in Benton Harbor, Michigan. 

Rita lived a life rooted in faith and devotion. She was a true prayer warrior, gifted musician, talented seamstress, and beloved family matriarch.

Rita leaves the following adult children to cherish her memory:
Elmer Blakemore III of South Bend; Natasha Blakemore-Evans of Indianapolis; Dontral Blakemore of Indiana; Jasmine (Brian) Galbreath of Mesa Arizona; Tarry Blakemore of Indiana; Michael Blakemore of Indiana; Michelle Blakemore of Michigan; Yashee (Daymar) Burks of Indiana; Stephan Blakemore of Indiana; Lamar Blakemore of Michigan; Donell Blakemore of Michigan; and Marquell Blakemore of Indiana. 

She also leaves to cherish her memory her beloved “little sister,” Auga (Vern) Davis of Kalamazoo, Michigan; her loving in-laws Regina Harrington, Joe Kneeland, and Elder Preston (Angie) Kneeland, of Grand Rapids, Michigan. She will be lovingly remembered by a host of precious grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, in-laws, and dear friends.

Rita will be remembered for a life dedicated to service and uplifting the kingdom. Her presence is deeply missed.