Rita Darlene Palmore-Parie

November 10, 1953 – June 17, 2025

Rita Darlene Palmore, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on June 17, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada, following complications from cancer. She was 71. Her passing leaves a profound and irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Born in Los Angeles, California, on November 10, 1953, to Leatha and Leon Parie, Rita grew up in a home full of love, laughter, and resilience. Despite humble beginnings and the challenges of growing up with six siblings, she carried an unwavering belief that she could accomplish anything she set her mind to. That mindset followed her throughout her life.

Rita graduated from Perris High School in Perris, California, and went on to earn her Bachelor's degree from California State University, San Bernardino. She then built a remarkable career with the federal government, eventually retiring as a civilian Contracts Manager for the United States Navy. Among her proudest accomplishments was proving her intelligence to the world and breaking the cycle of poverty for her children.

To her son Semaj Palmore and daughter Shaleatha Palmore, birthed while married to James Palmore, Rita was a force of love, strength, and guidance. She parented and raised with fierce devotion, never allowing them to settle for less than their best. Her firm expectations were matched by an endless supply of love, advice, and comforting hugs that carried them through life’s hardest moments.

Rita had a deep love for cooking, something she joyfully passed on to her children. She shared cherished recipes from both her own mother and her mother-in-law and had a rare gift for identifying hidden ingredients in any dish. Seafood remained her favorite, and her kitchen was often filled with its savory aroma and the warmth of family.

She also played a vital role in the lives of her younger siblings and many nieces and nephews, helping to raise them with the same compassion and determination she brought to motherhood. People were naturally drawn to her—often sharing their stories and burdens, instinctively knowing she would listen with empathy and care.

Rita was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Leatha Parie (née Lewis), and her cherished sister, Sirmond Denise Brown (née Parie). She is survived by her father, Leon Parie; her stepmother, Pearl Parie; her brothers, Leon Daryl Parie, Jake Darnell Walker, Rutledge Dwayne Walker, and Vincent Parie; and her sister, Lisa Danette Conley (née Walker).

Her legacy lives on in her children, Semaj and Shaleatha; her grandchildren—Isaiah Jarmon, Alaira Gatson, Shaniece Coker, Semaj Palmore Jr., Dominic Palmore, and Quinton Palmore; and her great-granddaughter, Sophia Mikell. Her love touched countless others—nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends—who will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 29, 2025, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park, Catfish Cove, located at 800 N Archibald Ave, Ontario, CA 91764. The event will be outdoors and casual, near the water—just as Rita loved. Remembrances and shared memories will begin at 12:00 p.m. Snacks and drinks will be provided, and guests are welcome to bring their own food. The celebration will continue until 1:00 p.m., with the site available for continued enjoyment and cleanup until 5:00 p.m.

Parking is $15 per car and will be reimbursed with a receipt.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Rita’s name to a local food bank. And in her honor, hug your loved ones a little tighter—tomorrow is never promised.