Rita H. Henderson, 98 years young, passed away on March 19, 2022 in Titusville, Florida. Rita was born in 1923, in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, to Evelyn (Fresch) and Henry Hotz. Rita’s mom Evelyn, affectionately known as Nana, created the loving environment that shaped Rita into the beautiful personality that blessed all who came to know her in later years. Other life-shaping caregivers included her aunt, Anna Joyce, and her grandmother, Mary Fresch.
Rita graduated from Pittsburgh’s Taylor Allerdice High School where she met her future husband, Ian H. Henderson. After graduation, Rita worked for Curtis Publishing until 1944. Rita and Ian courted throughout this period until it became obvious to both that they were destined to be together forever. They were married December 27, 1944 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania while on their way to Ian’s naval assignment in Yorktown, Virginia.
Once in Yorktown, Ian and Rita settled into their first family home in the historic Moore House Kitchen, part of the National Park site in Yorktown. Rita worked as the Administrative Assistant to the Purchasing Agent for the Park until the end of WWII. Following the war, Rita provided the same services for University academic departments in both Oberlin, Ohio and Brockport, New York. Over the years, Rita used her acquired social and professional skills to support Ian’s academic work and career. For example, she typed Ian’s doctoral dissertation, finishing the day before giving birth to son Ian.
The family lived in Syracuse where daughter Ann was born; in Brockport, son Ian’s birthplace; and in Indiana PA where daughter Mora arrived to be spoiled by all except her jealous older brother. Subsequently, the completed family returned to Brockport in 1965 where they lived for 55 years.
As Brockport was the birthplace of their favorite son, Ian, it was only fitting that the family should return to his place of birth. Just before father Ian’s retirement from SUNY Brockport, the loving couple traveled the country pulling their Airstream trailer. They visited campuses and arts centers presenting and performing on three custom built historic keyboards. They enjoyed travel to Scotland and Italy. As well, they participated in Elder Hostels with various groups of seniors.
While taking care of the house and the three children, Rita extended her education by attending arts and literature classes at the colleges where her husband Ian taught. She also loved the French language and literature, taking private lessons for many years. She was an avid athlete, playing tennis as Ian’s doubles partner well into her late 80’s. The entire family played golf together, with everyone but young Ian playing with patience and even temper. They were avid campers all their lives, and the family eventually secured a summer place on Lake Ontario near Henderson Harbor. The nearby Elms Golf Club became the family’s home away from home, away from home. In other words, they built memories that will be treasured forever.
Rita, a devout Catholic, volunteered as a Eucharistic Minister at two parish churches, the Nativity Church in Brockport, and Titusville’s St. Teresa. Rita lovingly provided support to hospice patients, visited the sick, and took advantage of every opportunity to grow spiritually. She also loved to sing in her church choirs. For Rita, nothing was more important than her connection with God and the church she so loved. Her faith provided the impetus for a life devoted to love and sacrifice for others, not just for family and church, but also for all those who found themselves within the sphere and influence of her generous-giving spirit.
Rita was known for her generosity, her infectious and sassy sense of humor, and her indomitable optimism. Day or night, you could always count on a big welcome, a warm smile, and a loving embrace. Rita was quick to let you know that “everything will be okay”. Though quiet and reserved, Rita made everyone around her feel comfortable. She made fast friends who stayed with her for life. She especially appreciated her loving friend, Joan McGuinn.
Rita lavished undying support upon her children with a heart as big as the ocean. To say that she will be missed terribly is a gross understatement. Her loss will only be outweighed by the sweet memories that she has created for so many. We have all been so richly graced by her life and love. Rita, thank you for your life so well lived. We will cherish you in our hearts now and forever.
Rita is survived by her husband of seventy-seven years, Ian H. Henderson; her beloved children: Ann Henderson (Tom Nelson); Ian M. Henderson (Bonnie Henderson); and Mora Edwards (Gerald Edwards, deceased); her loving grandchildren: Shawna Edwards (Brian Erath), and Gerald Edwards (Stephanie Chinappi); and her great grandchildren, Katalina, McKenzie, and Aurora. “Adopted” grandchildren Tommy and Kerry Nelson also mourn her passing, as do many friends and acquaintances.
