Our first trip to Tucson to see Aunt Reta after Ed’s retirement.

My heart is heavy today, as I post my Tribute to one of my dearest friends, Reta, is laid to rest. Seventy two years ago I met this Amazing woman. We have traveled the journey of life together through laughter and sorrows. She lived near us in the Mission Trailer Park. Already as a woman before her time, she worked at the SkyChef restaurant at the Airport,  and was Supervisor  of waitresses. Throughout my life she gave me employment opportunities of employment, she always supported and guided me to adulthood with pseudo parenting. Her love of life and her love of her children is unequalled. She was there at my Wedding Shower, my Wedding party, later my baby Shower, my College Graduation. In my youth she taught me cooking and shared recipes which I still have today. My last phone call couple years ago,to her, lasted five hours, we laughed and remembered how she sent me delivering supplies to the Mission Club and I met my husband to be. How we shared co-guardianship of friend Martha, and sponsored the Mission Club Reunion 1989. During the last 20 years when I would hear the song, *Little Brown Jug, a combo polka and square dance, on stereo, I would call her and have her listen. I always remembered her dancing to that song. I remember she and Father John dancing away. I share my respect, admiration, affection, and love to Reta and her children whom I babysit in their youth. Remembrance Always.... Johnny at Kino, Tommy in the Boy Scouts, Robbie and the fire in the playhouse, Bev and her dolls and Tea Parties, and Tammy in her crib. Now Reta rests near Father John and remembered, as a Woman before her Time.   Shirley Thomas

The memories are too numerous  to count my dad's band playing mission club us kids doing bunny hop in our twin out fits out one door in other  mom (gladys) working for reta and being best friend for yrs. All of us kids doing things togather camping playing etc. What I thought was unique thee was 5 kids in each family 3 boys 2 girls but our family girls were oldest theirs boys were oldest. I will always treasure the relationship. Reta thanks for being moms friend ❤️  I give you all my deepest sympathy .

I am so sorry for the loss of your mom, Reta. 
So many wonderful memories. Even though I never saw her a lot, I will always remember the conversations I had with my mom about her. She was loved and will be missed. Peace, hugs, love and prayers to the family 

To all the family. 
Aunt Reta was such a wonderful person, full of love and passion for her family. We are so blessed to be a part of it. We will always cherish our visits and the times we spent together. You can be assured that she is in heaven with uncle Runt and the rest of the family and they are having a great game of Euchre. Our prayers are with you all.
Carol and Roger Couchot

Tom & Florinda, Ande & I are holding you in our thoughts & in our hearts during this time of your loss. May all your best memories of your mother bring you solace. Un abrazo caloroso, Mike Burkholder

Rita,
    You were truly a women before your time. I remember the first time we meet you at the Cafe. You were my moms (Belita's) boss and soon to be a very good friend. You and John fondly became Father John and Mother Rita to us as kids and you both made us feel like extended family. 
The last time I saw you was at the hospital and we enjoyed a lite conversation about what had been going in our lives, you always asked how myself, my beautiful and Wes were doing. You are truly going to be missed. We love ya and know you and John are dancing in eternity with the heavenly FATHER. Rest in GOD'S glory, love ya so much. Buddy Dean

Reta was a great friend and neighbor. She was so kind and thoughtful and willing to help everyone. I was blessed knowing her and having her for my neighbor. Flora

OBITUARY

Reta Eileen Vagedes

12 September, 1928 – 15 June, 2023

Funeraria del Angel South Lawn y South Lawn Cemetery

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