Rita Claire Saka

n celebration of a life filled with love, laughter, and dedication, we honor Rita Claire Hurley (Studinger), 76, a treasured wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Born on September 11, 1950 (yes, 911 happened on her 51st birthday), in Detroit, Michigan, Rita was the cherished daughter of Herman Studinger and Dorothy Wunderlich. Her early years were marked by a close-knit family life alongside her parents and siblings, Arnold (RIP) and Annette.

Rita's journey through life was brightened by her marriage to Clinton Hurley of Phelps, Kentucky. Together, they welcomed their beloved daughter Lisa Ann, who would go on to bring the joy of grandchildren into Rita's life. These grandchildren, Bryan Hurley, Scott Johnson, and Christina Parise (Johnson, married Devin Parise), were the apples of her eye, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

A proud graduate of East Detroit High School, Rita continued her education through night classes, showcasing her commitment to personal growth. Her professional life was dedicated to the automotive parts industry, where she worked for Chivas, LLC. Known for her hard work and determination, Rita's steady employment was a testament to her drive and resilience.

Rita was a woman of faith, finding solace and community at Saint Peter's Lutheran Church on Gratiot. Her devotion to her Christian beliefs was a guiding light throughout her life. Her belief is that "To be absent from the body, is to be present with the Lord." Her love for animals, especially her cats Onyx and Charlie, reflected her compassionate nature. Prior to cats, there was Willie, a white purebred German Shepherd.

In her leisure time, Rita enjoyed a variety of activities. She was an avid reader and had a passion for board games like Yahtzee and Scrabble, often sharing these moments with her family. Her love for martial arts was sparked by attending classes with her daughter, Lisa, who later achieved the rank of Taekwondo Master. Rita also found joy in the accordion and watching her favorite television show, "Days of Our Lives."

Her easygoing demeanor and sense of humor made Rita a joy to be around, endearing her to all who knew her. Her best friend Freda VanGelderen shared a warm and extended friendship with Rita, knew her to be kind and a woman who held to her Christian faith, which was exemplified through her kind and gentle spirit. A dear friend, who will be missed, until met with friendship's smiles again! Also, a gold nugget among neighbors, Paul Owen really helped her and other elderly folks.

Rita's legacy is one of love, warmth, and devotion to family. She is survived by her loving sister, Annette Foerster, her daughter Lisa Johnson and son-in-law Norman Johnson, her many cousins - of which Pat Dewandeler was there to the end, many nephews and nieces and her treasured grandchildren. The memory of her parents, Herman and Dorothy, and her brother Arnold, along with his wife Marianne, remains ever-present in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff of Henry Ford Warren Hospital, nurses with daily care tasks of Autumn Woods Residential Healthcare, and Dr. Wilkinson of Alliance Physician Services for their compassionate care over the past five years.

In keeping with her generous spirit, donations in Rita's memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, an organization close to her heart.

The burial will take place on Saturday, October 17, 2026 for 11AM at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery, 21661 14 mile at I-94.

May Rita's name be written in the book of life.