Rita lived life to its fullest – and then some. Always adventurous, she loved slalom water skiing, all kinds of music (especially Elvis and Jimmy Buffett), summer float trips, boating expeditions, spending time with her two sons, Steven and Jeffrey, and her many grand-puppy dogs, growing orchids, traveling across the U.S. with husband, Jim, and wading out into the Gulf of Mexico to be with her beloved dolphins, cocktail in hand.
Rita is survived by her two sons, Steven (Eileen) Davis and Jeffrey Davis, two grandchildren, Jared and Alexa, two granddogs, Scarlett and Jasper and two great-grandchildren, Isabelle Davis and Aaron Carr, Jr. She also leaves behind nephews Michael (Beverly) Frierdich, Paul (Alice) Frierdich, Mark (Linda) Frierdich, stepsons, Dr. Stephen (Jackie) Sanders, Joseph (Laura) Sanders, stepdaughters, Judy (Ken) Knobbe and Nancy (Rick) Isenmann and many friends that loved her dearly.
She was preceded in death by her second spouse, James Sanders (d. 2021) and first spouse, LeRoy Davis (d. 2022), brothers Walter and Herman (“Buddy”) Frierdich, sister Mary Ann Frierdich and parents Herman and Frances Frierdich.
If you were ever fortunate to spend time with Rita, you already know that she was an incredibly strong, determined woman who overcame a number of obstacles to live life to its fullest. She always had a positive attitude, an honest opinion (like it or not), and a word of encouragement (or kick in the butt) when you needed it. She will be greatly missed by her family and many friends who will forever cherish their memories of celebrating life with Rita.
A special thanks to all the staff at The Springs of Boca Ciega Bay who cared for Rita during her final months and ongoing health issues. At her own request, there will be no formal services. However, memorial contributions may be offered to The Lupus Foundation of America - https://www.lupus.org/, The Dolphin Research Center - https://dolphins.org/ or Human Society of Pinellas - https://www.humanesocietyofpinellas.org/.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.serenityfuneralhomelargo.com for the Sanders family.
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