Rita Marie Bilyeu May 20, 1944 - May 14, 2025

Rita Marie Bilyeu, age 80, of Ozark, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, May 14, 2025, in her home surrounded by her loving family. Rita was born May 20, 1944, the daughter of Travis and Eula Holmes. On October 22, 1961 she and Argel Bilyeu were united in marriage, this union was blessed with two children, Lisa and Marvin.

She was a well-known beautician for over 50 years in Ozark, owning and operating her only salon. Rita cherished taking care of her family with her amazing home cooked meals she prepared, the gardens she planted and making memories with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Rita considered her biggest blessing to become a grandmother to Tyler and Travis Phipps and later a great-grandmother to Henlee and Haddie.

She was preceded in death by her parents Travis and Eula Holmes, son Marvin Bilyeu and grandson Tyler Phipps.

Rita is lovingly survived by her husband of over 64 years, Argel; daughter Lisa Nickelson; grandson Travis Phipps; great-grandchildren Henlee and Haddie; her brother Windell Holmes; nieces, nephews and many loving church friends.

Following Rita’s wishes a graveside funeral will be held at 2:00 P.M., Saturday, May 17, 2025, in Schupbach Cemetery under the care and direction of Barnes Family Funeral Home, Ozark, Missouri. A complete obit will be posted soon. Online condolences may be shared at www.barnesfamilyfunerals.com.