Photo courtesy of Swartz Funeral Home - Flint
Flint, Michigan
Jul 17, 1938 – Feb 26, 2023
Rita (DeLaVergne) Keyes passed away on Sunday, February 26, 2023, at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, after a brief illness. Per her wishes she has been cremated. She was 84 years old.
A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, March 6 at St. Pius X Catholic Church at 3139 Hogarth Ave in Flint. The family will be receiving friends and family one hour before the service which will be held at 12:00 pm and a luncheon will be held after the service in the hall.
In lieu of flowers, Rita has requested that you share a gift of money or your time with your favorite charity and think of her.
Rita was born on Sunday, July 17, in 1938, in Mt. Morris to Louis and Matilda (Simmons) DeLaVergne. She graduated high school in 1956 from St. Paul’s Catholic School in Owosso. She was a member of the school choir, journalism club, honor society, and yearbook club. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, and older sister. She will be missed by her four children, Kristine (Keyes) Pullman and husband Neil Pullman, Mark Keyes and wife Andrea Chirich, David Keyes, and Karen Thomas. She had five grandchildren, Rachel Pullman, Renae Pullman, Josh Keyes, Christopher Keyes and wife Kalyn (Wurst) Keyes, Chelsea (Thomas) Blakemore and husband Nate Blakemore, and one great-grandchild Oliver Blakemore.
Rita was employed by Simen, Figura & Parker law firm for more than 20 years as the receptionist. She loved meeting new people and connecting with the clients before their appointments. She was a volunteer with the Mundy Township Police Department and could be seen patrolling the parking lots on Friday nights during high school football season. She was a volunteer usher and server at The Whiting Auditorium for many years. She volunteered at the annual Crim Race in Flint from 2001 to 2021. She was employed by Sears at the Genesee Valley Mall for over 40 years. When her children attended elementary school at St. Pius X Catholic School she worked as the school receptionist. Rita loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grand child and traveling. She will be missed by all.
Read MoreI am so sorry to hear of Rita's passing. She was such a pleasant voice whenever I would call. She will truly be missed and my thoughts and prayers go out to her family. Heaven surely has been gifted with an angel.
Linda Lawson
March 07, 2023 | Work
Gerald DeLaVergne
March 06, 2023 | Family
Gerald DeLaVergne
March 06, 2023 | Family
I first met aunt Rita in 1949 as the oldest grandchild of her parents Louis and Matilda. She was around 11 years old and I would remember her mostly when she was a teenager since she helped grandma babysit me once in a while. I have always known her as a highly energetic person who loved to laugh and giggle. I pray that she rest in peace with Jesus for eternity.
Gerald DeLaVergne
March 06, 2023 | Family
The Klocko Family remember Mrs Keys so very well, with fondness the smile she had to share with everyone. She lived a full life and had a wonderful family. No greater feat! Kristine has always been a true friend to our sister Karen and we know that this sorrow will be diminished by all the wonderful memories of a beautiful lady. God Bless.
Pamela Klocko Adkins
March 06, 2023 | Friend
I worked with Rita for several years. I found her to be charming, witty and a true joy. She was a source of inspiration and acceptance regardless of your path in life. She was special and will be missed beyond measure. Rest easy in heaven my friend.
Beth Ackley
March 05, 2023 | FLINT, MI | Coworker
Rita was a dear friend. I volunteered with her at the police department. She was such a vibrant woman. She will be dearly missed.
Jeanne Anderson
March 05, 2023 | Friend
I am very saddened to hear this, we had wonderful giggles while volunteering together!! She was truly a wonderful lady. Andrea
Andrea Sutton
March 02, 2023 | Friend
Kris - sending prayers at this time for you and your family. Love Urs
Ursula Witkowska
March 01, 2023 | Other
