Rita Ann Rooker (Mayotte), 86, passed away on Sunday, November 15th in Stuart, Florida from natural causes.

Born in Flint, Michigan, to Dorothy and Francis Mayotte, Rita was the oldest of 3 kids, and the only girl.

Sociable and sharp-witted, she excelled at English, Penmanship, and Spelling while also partaking in numerous social clubs. Rita met her husband Herb at the Hi-Ho Dance in Bay City Michigan. She often remarked how she was close to not going out that night; but when her friends convinced her to tag along, she ended up being forever grateful for that. They dated for 5 years before Herb proposed on leave from the Navy. They married on May 5th, 1956; and soon after they started a family. A mother to 5 children all close in age - Joseph, James, Jeffrey, John and Kathryn - Rita would say "If I had a dollar for every time they asked me why I named all my kids with "J's" but for one, I'd be a millionaire."

After raising their children, Rita and Herb migrated to Stuart, Florida; where Rita went on to be President of her park, Leisure Village for 15+ years.

Rita is survived by her husband Herb, her 5 children, her brother Richard, as well as 11 grandchildren and a great many beloved friends. She will be fondly remembered by those who knew her for love of reading, games, writing letters, and the QVC.

Due to the pandemic, a funeral is postponed at this time. Anyone wishing to reach out to Herb or the family, please direct your outreach to: RitaRookerMemoriam@gmail.com

An Online Guestbook is available by visiting www.treasurecoastseawinds.com