Rita "Oma" Hilda Jenkins, a loving mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away on October 24, 2025, in Junction City, Kansas, at the age of 91. Born in Stangenroth, Germany, on March 24, 1934, she was a beacon of love and compassion whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of all who knew her.
Rita married her husband, Walter, on June 19, 1957, in Wildflecken, Germany. This bond lasted until his passing on May 22, 2018. After their wedding, Rita moved from Germany to the United States with Walter in the late 1960s. This was just a small part of her incredible story, which included 17 moves during Walter's 20-year military career. Embarking on a journey that symbolized her resilience and adaptability, Rita learned English through her beloved American soap operas and game shows, including The Price is Right, as she embraced a new culture.
With a heart full of generosity, Rita immersed herself in family life as a devoted housewife and stay-at-home mother. Her nurturing spirit and boundless love flowed into every corner of her home, creating a sanctuary filled with laughter, warmth, and a million fond memories. For 16 years, she dedicated herself to working as a bus assistant for special needs children, embodying her compassionate nature through service to others. She also volunteered for seven years assisting with weekly bingo at Brookdale Senior Living before making it her home, where she quickly bonded with residents and staff. Always putting others before herself, Rita was known to offer her famous fruit snacks to everyone she met.
Every holiday season flourished under Rita’s watchful eye as she filled each celebration with joy, color, and cheer. From her unforgettable craftiness to her iconic decorations displayed for every holiday imaginable, her home was a true canvas of festivity. Rita’s personality was as radiant as her home decorations. Oktoberfest was especially near to her heart, where her heritage shone through her joyful spirit, German traditions, and unmistakable thick German accent. A welcoming smile and lively German polka music greeted every guest which perfectly reflected her love for bringing people together.
Her two greatest loves were her faith and her family. Rita was a lifelong, devout Catholic and an active member of Saint Francis Xavier Parish and Circle 1. She attended daily Mass and prayed the rosary every evening. She dedicated her time and talents to uplift those around her, and her caring nature fostered deep connections with family and friends, leaving a lasting mark on their lives. The love and pride she had for her children and grandchildren was evident with every story that she shared.
She is survived by her children; Dr. Jimmy (Jody) Jenkins and Judy (Troy) Sanner, her treasured grandchildren; Jordan Jenkins, Cadin (Estrella) Sanner, Corbin Sanner, and Creytin Sanner, and her sister, Amanda Hartmann of Germany. Rita's legacy of love and kindness will forever resonate in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers and two sisters of Germany.
Rita's life will be honored through a series of services. A visitation will be held on October 29, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with the rosary beginning at 6:30 PM at Johnson Funeral Home. The Mass of Christian Burial will take place on October 30, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church, with Fr. Peter O'Donnell officiating and Fr. Kerry Ninemire assisting. She will be laid to rest with a graveside service at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery alongside her husband at 1:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Junction City, Kansas, and Accord Hospice, Manhattan, Kansas.
May Rita rest in eternal peace, forever remembered by those who had the privilege to know and love her.
As Oma would say…
“Out the door, Dinosaur”
“See you later, Alligator”
“So long, King Kong”
“Bye bye, said the Fly”
“After awhile, Crocodile”
“See you soon, Raccoon”
“Give a hug, Lady Bug”
“Blow a kiss, Jellyfish”
“Be sweet, Parakeet”
“Fly high, Butterfly”