Rita Marie Morgan

Rita was born in Rockford, Illinois, where she was raised before marrying her husband, George Morgan, who passed away three months before her. She was also preceded in death by her mother Elizabeth Stringham, stepfather Ben Stringham, and siblings Dick Riley and Jeannine Cook and James Cook, brother-in –law.

She is survived by her children Rick Morgan, Rob Morgan and his wife Robin, and Michele Morgan; her grandchildren Brooke Abrames and her husband Brandon, Tanner Morgan, Taylor Morgan, and Ashley Dettman and her husband Bryan; her great-grandchildren Lainee and Harper; and several nieces and nephews.

Rita had an adventurous spirit from a young age. She loved roller skating, playing roller derby, and proudly rode a Harley. At 18, she and a friend set out on a road trip from Illinois toward California by way of Texas, where she met George. Six months later, she married the love of her life.

During George’s 12 years in the Air Force, the family traveled before settling in North Fork in 1968. Rita was deeply involved in her children’s schools as a room mother and Scout Den Mother. She loved sewing and making things for her home and family, and she created arts and crafts items that the family sold locally. One of her boldest traditions was packing her three young children and the family dog into a VW Bug each summer for a cross-country trip to visit relatives.

In 1977, the family moved to Auberry, where Rita co-founded The Rainbow Gazette, a newspaper covering the area from Fish Camp to Huntington Lake. She served as reporter, editor, typesetter, ad salesperson, and delivery driver — with the photo lab set up in her laundry room.

After the family began attending Sierra Hills Baptist Church in 1978, Rita became the church secretary, supported the church school, and hosted weekly youth Bible studies in her home. She also served for a year as a Sierra High School pep squad advisor.

Later, after building their home in Burrough Valley, Rita started a flower shop from her home, eventually opening a storefront for SOS Florist in Clovis. She worked as a florist for about 20 years, retiring in 2015. She especially loved creating prom flowers for the local students, and ensuring every bride had beautiful arrangements, regardless of budget.

Rita was joyful, creative, and deeply compassionate. Those who knew her best remember her generosity, her work ethic, and the care she showed to anyone in need.