of Little Rock, AR

January 31, 1948 - May 28, 2023

Rita Wurtz, wife, mother, grandmother, gardener and renowned interior designer, passed away on May 28th, 2023, at the age of 75.

Rita celebrated 51 years of marriage with her wonderful and caring husband Sid, to whom she was devoted. Before his recent passing, they delighted in spending time together traveling, fishing, gardening and being grandparents to Paul and Jane Wurtz. Above all, she enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.

Rita was born on January 31, 1948, in Pocahontas Arkansas to her late parents Lucille Wren Barthel and Paul Barthel. She studied at Arkansas State University earning her Bachelor's degree, moved to Little Rock and began working in interior design, where she learned the art of transforming a living space into a haven of comfort and tranquility.

Rita's passion for interior design was not just about decorating rooms but rather creating a beautiful place that reflected the personality and lifestyle of the occupants. She loved it so much that she started her own interior design company in Little Rock and continued her business until her death. Her sense of style, and eye for detail made her a sought-after designer. Rita was a woman of great talent and will forever be remembered for her incredible work in the field of design. Her love for design and colors also carried over into her love for gardening. She enjoyed spending most of her free time outdoors working with her flowers.

She was a warm, kind, and generous soul, always willing to share her knowledge with others. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her, and she will be sorely missed.

She was preceded in death by her husband Sidney Wurtz, parents Paul and Lucille Barthel and brother Paul David Barthel. She is survived by her two children, Craig Wurtz (April) and Ashley Wurtz Buchanan (Patrick); grandchildren, Paul and Jane whom she adored, all of Little Rock; Sisters, Nancy Barthel of Pocahontas, Arkansas, Barbara Manzano of Sacramento, California, Jean Bigger of Panama City, Florida and many nieces, nephews and in-laws.

The Rosary for Rita will take place at the Cathedral of St. Andrew Catholic Church, Tuesday 13th, 6:00pm followed by the visitation 6:30pm-8:00pm. A Mass of Christian burial will be Wednesday 14th, at 1:30pm at the Cathedral of St. Andrew Catholic Church where her friends, family, and admirers will pay their final respects. The burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Little Rock. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cathedral of St. Andrew Catholic Church of Little Rock.

Rest in peace, Rita and thank you for all the beauty you brought into the world!

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Chenal Funeral Home
13801 Chenal Parkway
Little Rock, AR  72211
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com