Rita Sue passed away surrounded by her loving family on December 18th, the same date her beloved mother passed exactly 20 years earlier. Born in Washington, D.C., to Margaret (Maggie) and Marvin Showalter, she graduated college in 1956 with a degree in Bacteriology, from the University of Maryland. Her interests were in clinical research as she worked at Walter Reed and NIH. In 1959, she met her husband Dave and continued working in her field at the University of Florida Veterinary Science Department in Gainesville, FL, during the time he was earning his Doctorate.

Rita Sue resided in Greenbelt, Maryland for 35 years, where she was dedicated to raising her children (Paul and Cheryl) and active in the Eastern Star, Capital Speakers Club, her church, and the National Debutante Cotillion of Washington D.C.

In 2000, Rita Sue moved to her late mother's beautiful home in Winter Park, Florida. She was passionate about restoring the home to its 1924 historical origin, as she always had a great interest in museums and genealogy. Being an active member of Winter Park Presbyterian Church, the University Club, the Woman's Club, the DAR, and the German American Society was certainly a highlight of her life. Rita Sue was an avid enthusiast of the theater and had a special place in her heart for the Winter Park Playhouse.

Rita Sue beautifully balanced her community interests with being an involved and loving grandmother to Pierce, Corbin and Lexington. As a devoted mother, she considered her life truly blessed to have her children and grandchildren living nearby. She will always be remembered for having a deep love for all animals (especially horses) and a passion for learning and trying new things. Her most favorite things were: the color red, working in her yard, Maryland blue crabs, swimming, health and nutrition, jewelry making and sewing, and organizing everything!

Rita Sue is commonly described by those that know and love her as a "beautiful lady, alive, family oriented, and a true friend." But perhaps the best description, as stated by her dear friend Barbara, is "amazing superwoman." Her uplifting spirit will always remain in the heart of all those that were blessed to be a part of her life.

Celebration of Life Service:
January 12th, 2017
Winter Park Presbyterian Church
400 S. Lakemont Avenue
Winter Park, FL 32792
11:30am - 12:30pm Viewing and Visitation.
12:30 Service with a Reception following.