Rita Longley

Rita Longley, beloved wife of Keith Longley, passed away on April 29, 2026, at the age of 91. Born in Littleborough, Lancashire, in Northern England, Rita met Keith when they were both just 16, beginning a love story that would span a lifetime. Together, they raised two daughters, Sharon and Debbie. In 1967, they moved to Hertfordshire, England because of Keith’s new job in London, where they spent 11 happy years. Rita thrived there—becoming President of Ladies Circle and building a successful career in sales.

In 1978, Rita and Keith embarked on a new adventure, traveling across the pond to Westchester, New York, where over the next 18 years, they built an independent British import company supplying the clothing industry before retiring to Arizona. An avid painter, quilter, and golfer, Rita was also a founding member, alongside Keith, of both the Ballroom Dance Club at Pebble Creek and the Pebble Creek Players, appearing in five productions and directing seven plays to great acclaim.

Above all, Rita had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, paired with a mischievous sense of humor that brought joy to those around her. Her granddaughter Hannah recalls how Rita would meet every visitor with a cup of tea and a conspiratorial smile, always ready with a story that left the room in stitches.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Keith; her two daughters, Sharon Longley Flint (Andrew Flint) and Debbie Longley Koopal (Steve Koopal); and six granddaughters: Dr. Kristen Longley Flint (Stefan Deutsch), Kathryn Flint Wald (Alex Germany-Wald), Kelly Flint Crisp (Collin Crisp), Hannah Koopal, Gemma Koopal, and Sarah Koopal, all of whom she loved dearly.

Rita’s life was a testament to love and family. Her legacy will live on in the family she created and cherished, and in the many lives she has touched. Rita will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Her warmth, creativity, and spirit will live on in all who knew and loved her.