Rita Mae McDade

Rita was born May 10, 1941, in La Junta Colorado to Edward J (Lalo) and Cora Chavez Garcia. Rita grew up in La Junta in a very large family. Rita graduated from La Junta High School and went on to beauty college to become a beautician. Rita was also a retail worker at Safeway for many years before retiring.

Rita was very kind, caring, and helpful; she always had a Smile. Rita loved helping people in need; she was a people person. Rita also Loved animals of all kinds.

Rita loved life, she loved to travel, hike, snow and water ski. She was an artist and painted beautiful paintings. She also made wonderful ceramic figurines.

Rita is preceded in death by her parents Edward (Lalo) and Cora Garcia. Her brothers Edward Jr and Henry, her sisters Rose, Pauline, Carrie & Sally. Rita leaves behind her sisters Diane Martinez, Lily Aragon, and JoAnn Abeyta. Rita also Leaves behind two sons, Edwin James Garcia (Christine) and John Gary Garcia (Connie). Rita has three grandchildren, Kendra Vennettilli (Nick), Christopher Paul Garcia (Elissa), and Brandie Lee Newby. Rita also has four great grandsons Landon, Julian, Adrian and Christian. Rita also has many nieces, nephews, and cousins that will miss her.

Rita will be forever missed and loved by her family and friends. As her faith kept her strong, may she rest in eternal peace

A visitation will be held at Memorial Gardens Cemetery & Funeral Home, located at 3825 Airport Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80910, on February 20, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

The funeral service will follow at the same venue on February 20, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.