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Rita Duff Obituary
Rita Jo Duff, 85, of Spring, Texas, went to be with our Lord and Savior on Tuesday, November 1, 2016.
She was born in Camden, Arkansas, on August 20, 1931, to Jeff and Bernice Tibbits. After her mother was killed in a car accident, Rita Jo, who was only two at the time of the tragedy, was raised by Ned and Ethyl Cheever. She met Leon Duff in the seventh grade, and they dated throughout their time at Little Rock Senior High School. Rita and Leon were married on July 20, 1951, in Little Rock, Arkansas, and had 65 amazing, love-filled years together. When her sons entered high school, she began a career in the field of education, working as an administrative assistant first at Pasadena ISD and, later, at Klein ISD.
Rita Jo was a longtime member of The Woodlands Christian Church and, she and Leon were instrumental in helping the church grow in its early days. She loved to travel and enjoyed some great trips around the world. Her hobbies included square dancing, playing bridge with her friends, and shopping, especially for shoes.
She loved her family deeply, and they were always first and foremost in her mind. Her three grandchildren were very special to her, and she attended as many ball games and dance recitals as she could. She also loved her great grandchildren, but dementia made it difficult for her to show them just how much she cared.
Rita Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Jeff and Bernice Tibbits, and Ned and Ethyl Cheever; and half-brother, Jeff Tibbits Jr.
She is survived by her husband, Leon Duff; brother, Ned Cheever; sons, Jimmy (Teresa) and Randy (Linda); grandchildren, Autumn (Tad) Roberts, Amanda (Mark) Oerther, and James Duff; and great-grandchildren, Tye Roberts, Beaux Roberts, and Max Oerther.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to LaDawn Barrett for providing care over the last two years.
Friends are invited to a visitation with the family starting at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, at Forest Park The Woodlands Funeral Home, 18000 I-45 South, The Woodlands, Texas 77384. The funeral service will follow at 11:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, please direct memorial contributions in Rita's name to the Alzheimer's Foundation (www.alzfdn.org); the Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org); and/or The Woodlands Christian Church (www.twcc.org), 1202 N. Millbend Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77380.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Rita Duff
Andrea Jones and John DuBois
October 29, 2021
It´s hard to believe it has already been 5 years. May your hearts be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Andrea Jones
October 29, 2020
Jimmy and Randy, your mom was like a second mom to me when I was little. Your family kept me when my brother John was born. I remember many happy times with our families on Brockley Lane and later when we all moved to Pasadena. We had a rich childhood. Your mom had a beautiful smile, clever wit, and a kind heart. She is truly missed.
JW
November 18, 2016
I'm very sorry for your loss. Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold on to. May God continue to comfort your family
November 13, 2016
Kind thoughts are with the family in your time of grief. May fond memories bring you comfort during these difficult days. Psalms 9: 9, 10
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November 11, 2016
May you have peace during your difficult time. John 14:27
November 9, 2016
Leon & Family,
The friendship we shared with Rita Jo and you is full of fond and lasting memories. We were able to laugh and celebrate life with you for many years and for that we are grateful. Rita Jo was a wonderful person, so gracious, and so easy to know. Such a blessing. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Lovingly, Shirley & Daniel Cain and Family
Karen Stewart
November 8, 2016
Miss Rita was a wonderful lady. I am truly glad that I was able to take care of her beautiful hair for over 20 years. My thoughts and prayers will be with you , Mister Leon in the coming days. Remember all the good years that you shared and stay close to your family. Love Karen Stewart
Leah Gray
November 8, 2016
Leon & Family,
Please know our thoughts & prayers are with you during this time & in the days ahead. Rita Jo was always a lady - a true class act. We remember her fondly during our time at TWCC. I especially enjoyed our time in CWF & at many church dinners. May God hold you in His arms.
Much love to you,
Leah, John, Sarah, & Allie Gray
November 8, 2016
I feel so thankful for our long time friendship with Rita. I will miss her smiles and wonderful personality. Leon and family I pray that you have peace knowing that Rita is at rest. Monte Slatton
November 8, 2016
I became so fond of Rita when she needed personal care. My time spent with her was such a blessing to me. Leon, my special prayers are for you and your family.
Anita Slatton
Shirley Milstead
November 7, 2016
We have such fond memories of Rita Jo during our time at TWCC. The love of Christ was always shining through her eyes. Love to Leon! Shirley & George Milstead
November 7, 2016
Rita Jo was so special to all of us. We are praying for your family as you grieve her loss. Love to each of you, Linda and Glenn Turner
Jackie Chamblin
November 6, 2016
So many fond memories of days gone by. Our parents have truly been life long friends. My love and prayers are with your family.
Jackie Chamblin
Andrea Jones
November 6, 2016
Leon, Jimmy, and Randy,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during these days. We are so very sorry for your loss. We loved her too! Andrea DuBois Jones, John DuBois, and Jackie DuBois Chamblin
Bill and Lavena Jennings
November 6, 2016
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
November 6, 2016
My thoughts are with the family in your time of grief. May fond memories bring you comfort during these difficult days. Psalms 9: 9, 10
Chris Liberto
November 4, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss. May God keep all of you in His care.
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