Rita Kay Overman

Rita Kay Overman, also known by many as Rita Bennett, of Sebring, Florida, died

peacefully from cancer at home on Sunday, August 14, 2022, at the age of 74.

Rita was born on January 13, 1948, to parents Arva (Benner) and Marion Overman in

Richmond, Indiana and was an only child. Her childhood days were happy memories

living on a farm with cousins to share fun. As a young child she learned to sew, and this

skill followed her through her life. She also was most proud to earn a few coins mowing

the farm, perhaps the beginning of her career interests. She was her high school

Valedictorian and received a BA from Earlham College in Richmond in 1970. She later

earned a M.Ed. from the University of Maryland, College Park, MD and taught Special

Education for a short time prior to establishing herself as a highly respected Sales

Representative in the male dominated world of Industrial supplies and equipment which

was her career from 1983 through 2007 when she retired. In 2007, Rita and her

husband, Bob Bennett, moved from Baltimore MD to Sebring, Florida.

Rita was an avid cyclist and kayaker which she enjoyed doing with her husband and

friends both in Baltimore and then in Sebring. She loved books and reading and had a

direct style of communication. She also took pride in volunteering with The Ronald

McDonald House in Baltimore to give support to families of sick children. She was a

Master Gardner in both Baltimore and in Florida and was well known for her beautiful

gardens and love of butterflies which she shared with many. In addition, she served as

Secretary of the Country Club of Sebring Property Owners Association, Inc. for several

years until 2020.

Rita had an extraordinary spirit for life; she was full of joy and laughter and was an

inspiration to many. She is survived by her husband, Robert Bennett, and her sister-in-

law, Jane Wierman, and will be sorely missed by friends and extended family who loved

her dearly.

Memories and condolences can be shared online on the Morris Funeral Chapel,

Sebring, Florida, Guest Book