Rita Tiwater, age 77, of Yakima, Washington, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2026.

Born on July 21, 1949, in Bozeman, Montana, to the late Carol Lorraine Clark Hodgson and William Harlan Hodgson. After graduating from Columbia High School in Richland and attending Columbia Basin College for a time, she built a remarkable career. Rita worked as a mechanic at Lamb Weston for over 20 years, proving herself to be a strong, independent woman who took on tough challenges and had the incredible strength to accomplish whatever she put her mind to.

Known for her contagious smile that could light up a room, Rita brought warmth, dedication, and kindness to everyone around her. In her free time, she loved to camp, fish, relax by reading books, and most of all, spend cherished time with her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her son, Jefferson Russell Tiwater, and is survived by her siblings and many nieces and nephews. Rita is also survived by her youngest son, James “Rocky” Tiwater, his wife Kimberly, and their children: Kaden, Jailee, Jarrett, Jaxxon, and Kieran. She leaves behind her other beloved grandchildren—Silver McKay, Orion McKay, Elle Tiwater, Odin Tiwater, and Keira Tiwater—as well as her great-granddaughter, Rain, who will all forever cherish her memory.

A service to honor and celebrate Rita’s life will be held on Saturday October 24 at 12:00pm at Einan’s at Sunset Gardens Funeral Home, 915 By Pass Highway, Richland, Washington 99352.