Rita Rodriguez was born in Tuba City, AZ on February 27, 1965.She was the second child of six siblings – daughter of Johnny Rodriguez and Vita Rodriguez (Wytewa).Rita played volleyball, softball and basketball, lettering in all 3 sports before graduating from Flagstaff High School in 1983.Rita moved to Albuquerque with her oldest sister Wildine after high school to attend the Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute.She spent two years studying Accounting and SIPI and graduated there in 1985.

Rita spent a few years in Albuquerque following graduation but eventually returned home to family and Flagstaff.She began working for IKON before transferring to the Coconino County Juvenile Center in an administrative role.Rita ended up going back to work for IKON for a number of years before ending her career at the DMV in Flagstaff.

Rita was always private about her personal life and everyone that was close to her would agree.She was one of the most caring and loving daughter, sibling, mother, auntie and friend that anyone could ever ask for.Her heart was big and she gave back to her community by volunteering at both the VFW and the Legion in Flagstaff where she served as Past President of the Women's Auxiliary.

If you were fortunate enough to taste some of Rita's cooking, you would agree she had a special touch.She always wanted to help with cooking for a party or special gathering and her red chili tamales were second to none.Don't tell her Sisters, shhh!Rita never spent time working as a tailor or seamstress in her career but when it came time for Halloween costumes for her daughter, nieces and nephews, you never would have known it.The costumes she made were incredible and fun and she enjoyed it as much as the kids wearing them.Rita had a love for music and going to concerts with her friends and family.

During the last few months, Rita fought tirelessly with a progressive Autoimmune Disease.On the morning of August 29, 2018 Rita passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.Rita is survived by her beautiful daughter Sierra Ward and her five siblings; Wilding Rodriguez, Marietta Rodriguez (Bobby Yazzie), Angela Rodriguez (Mike Dvorak), Juan Rodriguez (Susie) and Ramon Rodriguez (Lori).She is also blessed with 22 nieces and nephews.

A Rosary will be held on Tuesday, September 4th at 7:00 pm at Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel (224 S. Kendrick St, Flagstaff, AZ).A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, September 5th at 10:30 am at San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church (1600 E. Route 66).Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.