Reiko M McCarty

Reiko McCarty, 88, of San Angelo, Texas passed away peacefully on January 16, 2023 with loved ones by her side. Reiko was born in Seoul, South Korea on June 4, 1934 to Masao and Misao Harada. She was the 7th child of 8 children. Her father was a General in the Japanese Military, which had the family moving along through Eastern Asia for many years. She lived in Korea until she was two, at which time her family moved to Shanghai, China. Reiko’s family returned to Japan sometime later in her childhood due to the war between China and Japan, and she lived there through her 20’s. In 1964, she moved to the United States where she met and later married Toady Robertson of Molalla, Oregon. There, they lived for 16 years where they raised their daughter, Tessa (Robertson) Easley, and brought her niece Nobu from Japan to live in America for 5 years as well) . In 1980, they moved to San Angelo, Texas. Reiko became an empty-nester in the mid 1980’s, and in true Reiko fashion, she embraced the new adventure with open arms. She remarried on May 7, 1988 to her formidable dance partner, Dr. Robert H. McCarty. During this season, Reiko also found her calling as a Licensed Massage Therapist. Compelled by her dedication to this new career, Reiko traveled to China for a short time where she studied the art of Traditional Chinese Massage and Reflexology (a very monumental trip, as now in her 60’s she was able to visit her home in Shanghai where she spent her childhood). She relied on that experience and perfected her skills throughout the 17 years she worked at the Waterford Wellness Spa. She helped so many folks in the Concho Valley and had a very notable career. Reiko's aptitude was of the highest and always got excited about learning something new, and she was never afraid to embark on a new adventure. Her passions included toll painting, stained glass artwork, sewing, cooking, the Bentwood Dance Club, Thai Chi, following Bob to his Bridge Club, and traveling. Fondly referred to as “MiMi” by loved ones, Reiko was grandmother (survived by all listed) to Kim Keating, Corey Keating, Megan (Keating) Brady and husband Brooks Brady. Reiko was a great grandmother to Parker, Bryson and Tinley Havercroft; and, Aubrey and Adelyn Brady. She is also survived by daughter Tessa Easley and husband Rick, and special niece Nobu Stillwell and husband David. She also has her family in Japan – Junko Harada, Shota Harada and Asako Sato. Reiko is preceded in death by her husband Robert H McCarty Jr. MD, her 7 siblings, and her parents. Reiko and Bob moved to the Baptist Retirement Community in 2003. First in independent living, then to the Highrise, next to assisted living, and then ultimately nursing care. The family would like to extend a very special thanks to Baptist Retirement Community for all the years of love and care that has been shared. We could not have cared for them better without you all. You folks have NO IDEA how important you’ve all been to our family.

A message from Reiko’s loved ones:

Our dearest Mimi, thank you for leading by example. Your confidence was contagious. It is with much respect and admiration that we reflect on all that you taught us, whether small or large.

-Have courage as you walk through this world.

-Never stop learning.

-Never stop laughing.

-Always find time for lunch together.

-Don’t you dare forget sunscreen…

-Buckle up! (if you know, you know)

Although we’re no longer graced with your presence, we cherish these lessons and many more. We will proudly carry forward your bright, ambitious spirit in all that we do. We love you always.

-Tessa, Kim, Corey, and Megan

A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Friday, January 20, 2023 in Johnson’s Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. Family and friends may sign an online guestbook at www.johnsons-funeralhome.com