Rita Erdman

Rita Ilene Byars Erdman, 73, passed away September 13, 2021, at home, surrounded by her loving family following a courageous battle with cancer. A memorial service will be held on September 17 at 1:00 pm at Renew Church in Waco, Texas. Rita was born in Amarillo on November 5, 1947. She attended Palo Duro High School, cosmetology school in Amarillo, and McLennan Community College. She was a hair stylist in Amarillo and while in Waco, she completed a medical laboratory technician's degree. Rita worked for Scott and White Healthcare in Waco for twenty-three years. She had a lifelong passion for distance running. She completed the New York Marathon, Dallas Marathon, and many other running competitions. Evidence of her great talents and creativity are apparent in her massive antique collection and folk art crafts throughout her meticulously decorated home. But most of Rita's spare time was spent in her beautiful flower garden, always the finest on the block. Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Alberta and Jesse Byars; brother, Marvin Byars; and sisters, Mona Sharpe and Carol Shanks. Rita is survived by her husband of fifty-one years, Jerry Erdman; son, Kevin Erdman, and wife, Laura Erdman, of Flower Mound; daughter, Yvette Erdman, of Austin; sisters, Ruby Barlow, Velma Tate, Lawana Denney and husband, Red, Cathy Wyatt and husband, Tom; sister-in-law, Donna Myatt and husband, Murray; grandchildren Emily Erdman, Ian Erdman, Elizabeth Gonzalez, and MIchael Gonzalez; and many nieces and nephews. She was a member of First United Methodist Church and Renew Church, of Waco. As an expression of sympathy, flowers are welcome and contributions may be sent to Baylor, Scott, and White Hospice at 2911 Herring Ave, no. 310.