Rita Patricia Richards, 85, of Cantonment, FL passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, May 10, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born and raised in New Orleans, LA, Rita lived a life centered on family, love, and quiet strength. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose greatest joy came from spending time with those she loved, whether gathered around the table, sharing stories, or simply enjoying each other’s company. Her warmth, kindness, unwavering devotion to those she cherished most, free spirit and smile she always carried with her left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Patricia Lutz.

Rita is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Patrick Richards; her two sons, Ernest Perret III (Sandy) and Jace Banfell; her grandchildren, Jessica Gagliano (Clint), Brandy Kugler (Jonathon), Jace Banfell Jr. (Savannah), and Peyton Banfell; as well as her cherished great-grandchildren, Carsen, Camren, and Grace Gagliano, Tyce DiVincent, Tristin, Sam, Kennidy and Emery Kugler, and Jace Banfell III.

Her family was her pride and joy, and she took great comfort in watching it grow across generations.

A visitation will be held from 10:00am until a funeral service begins at 11:00am Friday, May 22, 2026, at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel, with Fr. Craig Smith officiating. Interment will follow at Bayview Memorial Park.

Rita leaves behind a legacy defined not only by love, but by the quiet, enduring way she showed up for her family with patience, compassion, and grace. The memories she created will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.