It is with great sadness that the family of Rita Ellen McKenzie, 56, of Wichita, KS announces her passing.

Rita passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 and was surrounded by her family. She was born in 1968 in Wichita, KS, the daughter of JT and Peggy McKenzie and wife of Toby Ward of Wichita, KS.

Rita Graduated from Kapaun Mt. Carmel High School in 1986. She attended Newman University where she discovered her passion for nursing and earned her Registered Nursing License. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Tabor College.

Rita had a fulfilling career as a Registered Nurse and worked primarily in Oncology.  Most recently, she worked in a nursing capacity with special needs children for Wichita Public Schools.

Rita is known by friends and family alike for her kind and compassionate nature. She's a true friend with gifts of empathy, encouragement, and generosity. Her remarkable strength and perseverance inspire all who knew her.  She was an active member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, and a woman of strong faith. Being connected to her community of family and friends brought her so much joy.  Rita and Toby love their dogs, who are clearly precious members of the family. Her sense of humor and light-heartedness brought a smile to the faces of anyone who had the benefit of being in her presence.

Rita will be sadly missed by her husband, Toby R. Ward (m. 2010) of Wichita, KS; stepchildren, Jaycie D. Ward and Kylan J. Ward; Brothers and Sisters, Daniel J. McKenzie, Kevin P. McKenzie, Mary A. McKenzie (Tony Sutton), John P. McKenzie (Julie), Kathleen V. Endsley (Rick), and Donald F. McKenzie; Brothers and Sisters-in-law, Ronnie Ward (Nonie), Rick Ward, Sherry Ward, Mark Ward (Debbie), and Penny Ward; as well as 4 grandchildren, 9 nieces, 19 nephews, 5 great nieces, 3 great nephews, and countless other family and friends.

Rita is now reunited with her parents, John T. McKenzie and Margaret A. (Peggy) McKenzie (nee. Burke) and beloved relatives in their heavenly home.

Visitation for family and friends will be on Monday, March 31, 2025 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.  at Baker Funeral Home East: 6100 E. Central Ave #203, Wichita, Kansas. Funeral services will be on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at 10:30 a.m., with a Rosary Service at 10:00 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church: 124 N. Roosevelt St, Wichita, Kansas.

Rita's family welcomes memorial donations to Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church or The American Diabetes Association in her name.