Rita Garrett, 68, of Margate, Florida, passed away on Tuesday, March 7th after a hard fought battle against many ailments over the last few months.

Rita was born on April 14th to Abbie Jean Nicholson and Billy "Bill" Carr Ainsworth in Lubbock, Texas. Growing up, Rita lived on various Air Force bases between Texas and Mississippi with her father (an Air Force civil engineer), her mother (a nurse), and three younger siblings. Her love of travel and living in different places began young. As a young adult she lived in Atlanta, Chicago, and finally settled in South Florida in the 1980s.

Rita began working in the legal field as a paralegal in her early twenties and continued to grow in the field throughout her life. She became a highly knowledgeable title examiner and notary and was extremely passionate about her work. Throughout her adult life Rita became very spiritual and was passionate about learning Reiki and other holistic remedies.

The other great passions of her life were her two children, Christopher and Angelica. Rita lived and loved to be a mom. Taking trips to the theme parks and Florida landmarks with her kids or just going to watch the new Marvel movie in theaters were some of her fondest moments. Her joy was only increased by the birth of her granddaughter, Aurora, whom she anxiously anticipated meeting, and thankfully was able to meet and love on before her passing.

Rita was also known as a mom to many. As many of her children's friends fondly referred to her as "mama Rita". She was a source of wisdom and guidance to any and all who came across her, leaving a lasting impression to all. If you had a question, needed a shoulder to cry on or an ear to listen, she was there and had a solution. Always met with a smile, a giggle, and possibly some brutal honesty; speaking what was on everyone's mind but no one would say. She also radiated a childlike joy, enjoying cuddling with her beloved fur grandbaby Marla, watching Disney movies and cute animal videos while planning trips she wanted to take when she felt better.

Rita is predeceased by her parents, Abbie and Bill. She is survived by her children, Christopher and Angelica; her granddaughter Aurora; her three siblings, Jan, Belinda, and Bubba; and other family members and friends who miss her dearly.

A celebration of Rita's life will be held at Monarch Funeral Home in Margate on Saturday, April 8th from 3-7 p.m. If you would like to send flowers, please send to Monarch Funeral Home. Please feel free to dress casually and wear purple in honor of Rita as this was her favorite color.

Share your memories of Rita or express condolences to her family through our online guestbook.