September 5, 1942 – July 25, 2024
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Rita Rae Rush Harrington Deer, a beloved mother, grandmother, wife, and friend, who left us peacefully on July 25, 2024, surrounded by her family in Malibu, California.
Born in Loma Linda, California, Rita was a woman of incredible strength, grace, and warmth. She dedicated her life to her family and friends, touching the lives of all who knew her with her kindness, keen sense of humor, generosity, and unyielding spirit. Her love for her family was boundless, and her home was always filled with laughter, love, and good food.
Rita was a woman of many talents, a former model, a successful entrepreneur, and a lifelong horse enthusiast. She was renowned for breeding champion reining horses, a testament to her passion and dedication. Rita also had a deep love for golf, often found on the greens enjoying the sport she adored. Her generosity extended beyond her family; she was deeply involved in her community, volunteering her time at the Advocate Safe House Project and participating in numerous charity events throughout the years.
She is survived by her children, Timothy Harrington (Robyn), Christopher Harrington (Christina), Kelly Deer (Christine), Jennifer Deer Brooks (Houston Clay), as well as her grandchildren Jason Cole Brooks (Megan), Jack Deer, Michael Deer. Ellery Harrington, Hutchens Harrington, Lilly Harrington, Chloe Harrington. who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts and carry forward the stories, wisdom, and love she imparted.
A celebration of Rita’s life will be held on September 5, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Ironbridge Country Club, 430 Iron Bridge Rd., Glenwood Springs, CO 81601. Friends and family are invited to join us in honoring the remarkable life she lived and the many souls she touched.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in her name to the Advocate Safe House Project in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, ensuring that Rita’s legacy of compassion and generosity continues.
Rita will be deeply missed, but her vibrant spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.