ELKHART -- Rita Kay Nifong, 58, of Elkhart, passed away at 4:56 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2010, at Elkhart General Hospital after apparently suffering a heart attack.

She was born Oct. 23, 1953, to Ralph V. and Elnora M. (Pawling) Nifong in Elkhart.

Surviving are one brother, Darrell D. (Judy) Nifong of Elkhart, and her father, Ralph, who lives in Sarasota, Fla.

She was preceded by her mother, Elnora, and two brothers, Colin and Toby Nifong.

No visitation or service has been scheduled. In accordance to Rita's wishes, she is to be cremated, and the burial of her cremated remains will take place at a later date. Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, is handling arrangements .

Rita worked as an RV laborer in the Michiana area until her health required her early retirement. She stayed active by volunteering many years as a telephone operator for the Muscular Distrophy Foundation during the Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethons. Memorial donations may be given to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, P.O. Box 650309, Dallas, TX 75265.