It was a joy working with Rachel while she was at Houston Parks Board. Such a light in our office and always willing to help!  Sending virtual hugs to Rachel's family during this difficult time. I pray she is at peace and will light a candle for her. 

"Water no ice" and lemons..... that's how you liked your water.  My apologies for not posting sooner but it took sometime for me to process your passing away.  I had no idea you were battling with your health.  However, I'm not surprised because you were a very private person.  We met in April 2015 and our friendship instantly started to grow.  Rachel small in statue but bold and fierce. I remember going to the dealership with you and Linda to get your new car.  You knew what you wanted and no pushy salesperson would be able to sway you. I loved hearing stories about your daughter Jordan and your childhood "the daughter of a minister".  Rachel, I'm so happy to have met you, thanks for pouring into my life.  I believe your at peace, painting with the angels.   I miss you. Forever and always love, LaTrice. 

I don't think I will ever be able to find the words to truly express how much I miss you. For ten years, you were not only my colleague - you were my friend, my mentor, my confidante, my work mom.  I will always cherish the moments we spent together and all the laughs we shared. We had so much fun! Remember the Eviltron? I still have the fortune cookie drawing you gave me years ago on my birthday and The Gashlycrumb Tinies and a copy of The Slightly Eaten Pie that I had translated for you and Terry. You will always be in my heart. Love you, Rachel.  

Linda

During graduate school Rachel got me to focus on my physical well being as she  talked me into working out to her collection of Jane Fonda videos during our breaks from painting in the studio.  I thought I was in shape until I found myself trying to keep up with Rachel and Jane. I miss Rachel’s laugh, what a dear friend!

Rachel, even days later, I'm still in unsure what to say. I'm so sorry that I didn't know you were sick. You were a wonderful person,  with the sweetest and kindest soul. I keep thinking about all of our work days together and I'm heartbroken that you are no longer here. You were an amazing work mom to both Linda and me, and an even greater friend. You touched all of our lives. May God bring peace to you and your family.  I miss you. Love always, Amanda

Rachel, you were such a sea of calm.  You were so fragile yet so solid.  I always wanted to know you more.  Casey and I always loved being in your presence……..we felt  cared for by you and always were aware of your love for your  child…that was always what came through all of our brief encounters.  I always felt your being as a mother.  Your art was other worldly…sublime.  Thank you for being such a true, quiet spirit and producing some of the strongest yet most gentle art that I have ever seen. Love to you out there somewhere.  Jo Ann Williams

 Dear Rachel,

I am so sad to hear that you have left us.  You and I were single moms in graduate school, and knowing someone like you, really helped me get through some tough times.  When I was really broke one time,  you paid me to clean your house, and empty out all the glasses of milk that you served Jordan every night, and which she apparently never drank.   You were such a great friend, at a time when I really needed one.  And yes, I will echo what everyone has said, you were the most talented painter around.    Love you Rachel. 

Rachel, dear friend, the last time I saw you I didn't know you were leaving.  This is what I would have said to you.
     You are a tiny woman filled with courage and heart-sui generis- a 
      woman with strong will who lives as only she chooses.  I admire 
      your spirit and determination.  I admire your mothering and your
      uncanny ability to paint.  Always said you're the best painter in 
      Texas.  Invite me to your new house and let's talk and drink wine.
       I love you and I know you love me.  
Wherever you are, I will see you soon.  Mary

Rachel lived her life on her own terms as best she could.  Mother and artist are the two passions that defined Rachel and she focused on both with fierce intensity.  Rachel was unique, in a good way, and maybe the bravest person I ever knew.  To know her was to love, admire, fight and laugh with her.  A gentle soul shrouding a volcano.  Again, all to the good.  She was loved by many and shall be missed.  Rest In Peace, Rachel.  I love you.

OBITUARIO

Rachel Lea Ranta

22 septiembre, 1953 – 28 octubre, 2021

Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home

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