Rita Kay Fahrlender

She was preceded in death by her father Vern Riggenbach, Brother Rex Riggenbach and sister Teresa Cottrell.

She is survived by her devoted and loving husband of 27 years, Larry Fahrlender; Daughters, Jennifer Robinson of Fort Worth, TX and Jessica (Tim) Sladek of North Richland Hills, TX; Mother Violet Riggenbach of Paulding, OH; Brothers, Jerry (Pam) Riggenbach of Paulding, OH and Tom (Carol) Riggenbach of Martinez, GA; Sisters, Shirley (Mike) Graham of Hudson Oaks, TX and Natalie (Dan) Garrick of Danbury, CT. She is also survived by her twelve grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Rita was born February 20, 1951 in Celina, OH. She graduated from Paulding High School and attended Harding University in Searcy, AR. She moved to Fort Worth, TX in 1970 and began her career in the Insurance industry and raising her two children. She excelled in Tupperware sales and teaching children’s bible school classes. Along the way, she became known as the “cookie lady” and celebrated every occasion with her decorated special treats. She had many talents and gifts such as cooking meals for those in need, quilting, knitting, and sewing. She was dedicated to decorating her home for the seasons as well as her bulletin boards at church. She had a heart for children and the elderly and always had a smile to share with them. But of all her loves, her grandchildren and great grandchildren were where she loved to spend the most time. Her husband says she was the most supportive wife he could have ever had, although he could never convince her to move to “God’s country” in New Mexico.

She was greatly loved and will be missed by many. She left a legacy of faithful service to God for others to follow.

A memorial service will be live streamed at Laurel Land Funeral Home (Facebook page) on Tuesday, January 19th at 10 am. Burial will be at a later date at the National Cemetery in Dallas, TX.

Rita was an active member of Burleson Church of Christ and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Burleson Church of Christ Day of Thanks and Giving.