Rita Laura Viar Williams

Rita Laura Williams, 81, of Roanoke, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. Born in Pulaski, Virginia on August 4, 1939, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Williams; brother, Garland Walters; sister, Edith Bayse; and special parents, Jack and Iva Laprad. Rita was a loving mother and grandmother who greatly enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She had a gift for raising plants and took great pride in each one she cultivated and helped to thrive. Technology fascinated her, and she became quite skilled at navigating the internet she was very tech savvy for her age. She was also fond of the many friendships made during her 24-year career at General Electric. Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Katherine (Scott) Shrewsbury, of Daleville, Va., Richard (Tina) Viar, of Fincastle, Va., and Teresa (Chris) Sowers, of Roanoke, Va.; grandchildren, Teresa (Ted), Jeremy, Mary (David), Nathan, Barret (Ginni), and Kathlyn (Christopher); three great-grandchildren; aunts, Alma Hill and Sylvia Lemon; sister-in-law, Opal Walters; nephew, Jack Hobbs; as well as special friend, Bonnie Nicholson. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude for the compassionate care given by the staff of 10 South, Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, to Rita and her family. In honoring her wishes, services will be private. Service Details. Interment Location Sherwood Memorial Park Address 1250 East Main Street Salem, Virginia 24153