Rita Rakestraw was born to George Martin and Erma Houston Martin at Elk City, Oklahoma on October 2, 1938. Rita went to school her early years at Merrit Grade School and later attended Fargo High School. She graduated from Gage Public Schools with the class of 1956.

Rita married Bill Rakestraw on December 11, 1955 at the Church of Christ in Arnett, Oklahoma. The union was blessed with four children, Eldon Wayne, John Wesley, Reece Don, and Debra Jan. The family lived on the farm southwest of Fargo, Oklahoma until 1987 when they moved into Fargo.

Rita enjoyed her work as an auction clerk with her husband Bill who was an auctioneer. She also worked as a sales clerk and as a teacher's aide at Fargo Public Schools.

Rita found the most joy watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also enjoyed gardening, cooking, traveling and attending Community Coffee Club. Rita was also a member of the Church of Christ.

Rita passed from this life on June 9, 2009 at the age of 70 and was preceded in death by her husband Bill, son Eldon, father George Martin, and step-father J.R. Houston.

Those left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Debra and husband Jack Looney of Fargo, Oklahoma; sons, John Rakestraw of Fargo, Oklahoma and Reece Rakestraw of Woodward, Oklahoma; foster-son Richard Plank of Mannford, Oklahoma; mother, Erma Houston of Cayon, Texas; sister, Joyce Morgan and husband Cotton of Bronte, Texas; sister, Claudette Mierzwik of Greenville, Texas; brother, Ronnie Laramore and his wife Susie of Cayon, Texas; grandchildren, Wylie, Grady, Abby and Dakota; and great-grandchildren Michael, Landon, Dylan, and Aubrey; several nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.