Rita Mae Graves

Service for Rita Graves will be 1:00p.m., Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Chelsea Cemetery. Friends may visit at the funeral home on Wednesday, February 11, from 1pm-7pm. Rita, a beloved figure in her community, passed away on February 8, 2026, in Claremore, Oklahoma, at the age of 91.

Rita Mae Graves was born on September 24, 1934, in Winganon, Oklahoma. She was the daughter of Cecil and Fern (Sutherland) Brown. Rita's formative years were spent in Alluwe, where she graduated with the class of 1952. Her high school experience was marked by participation in the glee club, a passion for softball, and notable success as a star forward on the basketball team.

Rita’s professional journey began at the Bliss Restaurant in Nowata, an experience that would lay the foundation for her own entrepreneurial ventures. She owned a restaurant in Tulsa and later another in Collinsville, where she cultivated a reputation for serving delightful meals. Her journey took her to Alaska, where she worked in a convenience store, but her heart eventually led her back to Oklahoma. There, she continued her culinary passion by becoming a cook and later the manager at the Chelsea Senior Center. Rita was best known for her famous hot rolls, which drew patrons every Wednesday, and she took great pleasure in feeding those in her community.

Rita Mae Graves was a woman of diverse interests and talents. In her everyday life, she enjoyed reading, playing cards, and occasionally indulged in visits to Las Vegas. During earlier times, she showcased her creativity through crocheting, adding her personal touch to the lives of those around her. She also love to go fishing.

She leaves behind her family, including her daughter, Nicki Stutsman; her son, Hoss Lane; and her legacy continues through her 10 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter. Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil and Fern (Sutherland) Brown; her son, Brad Lane; her daughter, Janet McGuire; and her brothers, Cletus Brown, Dale Brown, and Kenneth Brown.

Rita's presence will be sorely missed, yet fond memories of her life will forever remain in the hearts of her family and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.