Rita Rae Windom

Rita Rae Windom
June 28, 1942 – February 22, 2026

Rita Rae Windom, born Rita Rae Hunt on June 28, 1942, in Dearborn, Michigan, to Charles Raymont Hunt and Mary Holloway Hunt, passed peacefully on February 22, 2026, surrounded by those she loved. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Marylee.

Rita graduated from The Dalles High School and, in 1959, married Robert “Bob” Windom while he was stationed at Fort Carson. Together they built a 66-year marriage grounded in faith, loyalty, and shared purpose. After Bob’s military service, they began their young family in Winslow, Arizona, welcoming sons David and Evan. They later returned to The Dalles, where their daughter Debbie was born. 
In 1967, they made Libby, Montana their permanent home — a community they invested in for the rest of their lives.

Rita was Bob’s true partner in both family and business. She managed office operations for Windom Distributing, the local Coca-Cola franchise, and in 1976 she and Bob purchased the Montgomery Ward catalog store. With steady competence and quiet resolve, she kept the books, solved problems, and supported employees and customers as their businesses grew into fixtures of the Libby community.

In 1996, Rita made history as the first woman elected Lincoln County Commissioner. For 12 years, she represented South Lincoln County with thoughtful leadership and firm conviction. She was especially proud of helping develop the walking trails connecting J. Neils Park across the railroad trestle to the fishing pond — places where families still gather and enjoy the outdoors. During the difficult years of the W.R. Grace asbestos crisis and Superfund cleanup, she stood firmly for Libby’s residents, working to protect their health, property, and dignity during a time of national scrutiny and uncertainty. Her efforts also contributed to expanding local healthcare access through the establishment of Community Health Center. As one of her final acts as Commissioner, Rita had the opportunity to  purchase the copyright to “City of Eagles” and donate it to the Libby Chamber of commerce granting Libby the sole ownership to that title.

A devoted member of Faith Bible Church for 28 years, Rita taught Sunday School, led youth camping trips to Crystal Lake, hosted sledding gatherings, played piano for services, and poured herself into children’s Christmas programs. Her faith shaped her life and guided her service.

Rita had particular compassion for the elderly, the disabled, and families walking through end-of-life care. She volunteered at the Libby Care Center, helped establish Libby Volunteer Hospice, and served faithfully in numerous community organizations.

Above all, Rita loved her family. In later years, she treasured quiet time with Bob and the growing circle of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who were her greatest joy.

Rita’s life was marked by strength, dignity, and steady courage. She worked with willing hands, spoke with wisdom, and stood firmly for what was right. She served Libby and Lincoln County with heart and conviction, and she loved her husband and family with unwavering devotion.

“Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future.” — Proverbs 31:25  
“Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” — Proverbs 31:28  

Rita is survived by her loving husband of 66 years, Bob; son David and wife Brenda; son Evan; daughter Debbie; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

 If you would like to donate to St. Jude's Children's Hospital in lieu of flowers, you can do so at: St Jude's Children's Hospital
 

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