On Friday, June 21, 2024, Rita Gaylor, aged 83, passed away at home. Rita was born Nov. 1, 1940, in Newell, SD. She and her family moved to Vancouver, WA, in 1945. Rita graduated from Hudson's Bay High School in 1958 and Evergreen State College in 1980. On Nov. 25, 1961, Rita married Robert "Bob" Gaylor at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Vancouver.

For nearly 30 years, Rita worked as a probation counselor and manager at Clark County Juvenile Court, during this time, she touched countless lives with her compassion and unwavering commitment to justice.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, Robert Gaylor (2016), and granddaughter, Ashley (1993). Rita is survived by her four children, Darren (Debbie), Dean (Kelley), Damon (Shelly), and Deanna (Kevin) Turner; sister, Judy Ruth; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren, who meant the world to her and carry forward her legacy of kindness and dedication.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Rita was cherished for her warm spirit and love of community. She was known for her infectious laughter, her love of gardening, and her passion for travel, but mostly for spending time with family and serving in the community.

A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, July 2, at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Vincent DePaul, Vancouver Conference, reflecting her lifelong commitment to helping people in need.

May she rest in peace, knowing her legacy of compassion
lives on in the lives she touched.