Rita Maria Millerick

With deep love and sorrow, we announce the passing of Rita Maria Millerick on May 11, 2026, at the age of 79. Rita was born on December 11, 1946, and spent her life devoted to her faith, her family, and the countless lives she touched through her kindness and teaching.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Juanita Odella and Vellio Mancini, and by her beloved granddaughter, Avery Roxanne Millerick.

She is survived by her son, Christopher Millerick and his wife, Kandyce; her daughter, Mary Amaral and her husband, Jimmy; her cherished grandchildren, Gianna Amaral, Ethan Millerick, Tayla Portillo, and Trysta Guinn; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Ezekiel Guinn, Adalynn Guinn, and Ashla Portillo. She is also survived by her husband, Carl Millerick of Saint Marie, Montana.

Rita dedicated many years of her life to being a second grade school teacher at Beard Elementary School in Modesto California, where she poured compassion, wisdom, and encouragement into generations of students.

Beyond her career, her greatest calling was her faith. Rita was a deeply devoted Christian in the Apostolic faith. Jesus was the center of her life, and she loved the Word of God wholeheartedly. Her Bible was never far from her side, and her prayers, faithfulness, and unwavering trust in God were an inspiration to all who knew her.

Her warmth, strength, and steadfast love for her family will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A viewing will be held Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Lakewood Funeral Home, 900 Santa Fe Ave, Hughson CA 95326. Funeral services will take place Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the same location.

Though our hearts grieve her absence, we rejoice in the hope and faith she carried throughout her life and the legacy of love she leaves behind.