Rita Jesse

"The love of my life, Rita L. Jesse passed away on August 12th, 2025 at St. John's Hospital in Maplewood, MN. Rita was surrounded by her wife Michele (Mitch) Edwards, pastor Tammy Wilkinson and 2 dear friends.

Rita was born to Adella and Carl Wagnon on March 5th, 1965 in Farmington, NM. Some years later, Rita took the last name of Jesse in honor of the man who truly gave her family home, respect and most of all love.

Rita attended high school and college in Montana. She loved science and theater. It was Rita's dream to be a science teacher and although that dream never came to fruition, she always carried a curiosity and passion for the subject. Rita was an actress, master set builder and makeup person for the Bozeman College theater department. Rita's acting skills were phenomenal.

Rita discovered in her adult life that she was part Native American - Cherokee to be exact. This was something that she embraced and honored throughout her life.

As a life partner, Rita was a gift that could never be matched. The blessing of her made life wonderful in every way.

Rita was preceded in death by her mother (Adella Jesse) and her father Jesse.

Rita is survived by her wife Michele (Mitch) Edwards. The two shared a rich and loving life together for 35 years. She is also survived by her brother Charlie Jesse, her niece Sherrie, and two nephews Scott and Clinton - all of whom she loved dearly.

Service Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 11:00 am at BEAVER LAKE LUTHERAN CHURCH, 2280 Stillwater Avenue East, Maplewood with visitation starting at 10:30 and a lunch to follow.