Rita Jo Layton, April 17th, 1947 – April 29th, 2026.
With deep love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we remember Rita Jo Layton, who went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at her home surrounded by loved ones.
Rita lived a life defined by love, presence, and an unwavering belief in the goodness of others. A cherished wife, devoted mother, beloved sister, proud grandmother, and treasured aunt and friend, she had a rare gift: she made people feel truly seen and heard. In her presence, you mattered.
She was the one behind the camera at every gathering – capturing laughter, quiet moments, and the connections that made life meaningful. Whether it was a family celebration, a spontaneous outing, a Harmony Girl gathering, or a motorcycle adventure, she preserved the memories that will continue to tell her story for generations. She never missed a sunrise or a sunset if she could help it, finding beauty in each day and reminding those around her to do the same.
Above all, Rita showed up for her family, for her friends, for anyone who needed her. Through life’s joys and challenges, she was steady, compassionate, and present. Rita made a choice every day to live a joyful life.
When faced with cancer, Rita met it in the same way she met life – with strength, grace, and an unmistakable spark. Her positivity and faith never wavered, and her signature fun socks became a symbol of her spirit: vibrant, resilient, and full of personality even in the hardest of moments.
Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, the memories she captured, and the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Rita was a graduate of Winamac High School and continued her education at Ball State University. After becoming a mother, she chose work that allowed her to remain close to home and be actively involved in raising her young children. As her family grew, so did her professional experiences. She worked as a reading aide at Rensselaer Middle School and later as a bus driver for Rensselaer School Corporation. Rita went on to hold positions with Carter Oil, White Castle Bakery, and Northway Products. Rita ultimately found her true calling in public service with the Jasper County Government, where she served as Jasper County Auditor from 1997 to 2004. During her tenure, she also contributed at the state level, serving as President of the Indiana Auditors Association in 2004 and as a board member of the Indiana Association of Counties. Rita’s true love, Ken, then brought her to La Porte, IN, where she served as Chief Deputy Auditor before her retirement. Always staying busy and helping others, Rita continued working during retirement as an Assistant Financial Coordinator at the Dunebrook Child Advocacy Center.
Rita, always and forever strong in her faith, was a member of Tracy Church in Hamlet, IN.
Preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Betty (Zook) Kuszmaul, son, Brett Steele, and brother-in-law, Rick Dilts. Left to cherish Rita’s memory are her husband, Ken Layton of La Porte, IN, sister, Becky Dilts of Winamac, IN, children, Julie Koczan of Rensselaer, IN, Troy (Beth), and Tracy Layton, both of La Porte, IN. Grandchildren, Jaydon Koczan-Steele of Indianapolis, IN, Jonah, and Julianna Koczan of Rensselaer, IN, and many nieces and nephews, cousins, and loved ones that Rita loved dearly and considered family.
The family wishes to express a heartfelt thank you to all medical professionals whose attentive care, gentle guidance, and unwavering compassion helped ease Rita’s journey. And to the Hospice team, your presence made a difficult time more peaceful than we could have imagined.
As a final act of generosity and giving, Rita chose to donate her body to science, ensuring that even in passing, she would continue to contribute to the care and advancement of others.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 16th, 2026, at First United Methodist Church at 1225 Michigan Ave. La Porte, IN 46350. Memorial will begin at 11:00 am CST with a Celebration of Life Luncheon, immediately following.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel in La Porte.
To light a virtual candle, share a memory, or leave a message of comfort for the family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com
