Rita Ellen Fitzwater

Rita Ellen Fitzwater, 76, of Norwalk, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2026, at Gaymont Nursing Center. She was born on June 13, 1949, in Alderson, West Virginia, to the late Roy and Icy Mable (Cadle) Shawver.

Rita was a woman of deep faith with a strong love for her church. She enjoyed having music playing, especially Southern Gospel, which brought her great comfort and joy. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family. She loved going out to eat together and enjoyed going on shopping trips.

She is survived by her daughters, Melissa Williams and Lori Smith; her grandchildren, Kiara Williams, Taylor (Shawn) Fitzwater, and Justin (Brooklyn) Marshall; and her siblings, Mary (Clyde) Green, Jean Shawver, and Bill (Carolyn) Shawver.

In addition to her parents, Rita was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 53 years, Roger Fitzwater, who passed away in 2022.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Walker-Eastman-Heydinger Funeral Home, 98 West Main St., Norwalk. Following the conclusion of the visitation period, a funeral service will begin promptly at 1:00 p.m. with burial to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions made in Rita’s name may be directed to North Eaton Church of God. Online condolences and expressions of sympathy can be made by visiting www.walkereastmanheydingerfh.com.