Reta Mae Warren

Reta May Warren, resident of Benicia for 70 years, passed away February 27 at home, surrounded by family. She was 94. Reta was born December 7, 1930, in Idaho Falls, Idaho to Ona and Nathan Winters. She was the third of five children. Reta met Wendahl Warren in Oregon. They married in 1948 and had 3 children before moving to Benicia, where their fourth and final child was born. Reta was a teacher's aide at Mills Elementary for several years before going to work at her daughter Wendy's preschool, Happy Hearts, in 1986. She continued to work at the preschool until she was 80 years old. Many generations of Benicia children knew and loved Teacher Reta. She was also active in the LDS church most of her life where she taught Sunday school and worked in the nursery. Her hobbies included spending time with her family, babysitting her grandchildren and then great grandchildren, crocheting, puzzles, baking, and watching football and cheering for the 49ers. Reta is survived by daughters Wendy Hall (Dennis) of Martinez, Teri Ash, and son Gerald Warren (Debbie), both of Benicia; 11 grandchildren, and 24 great grandchildren, with one more on the way. Lifelong family friend Rhonda Ballenger was an honorary daughter and helped care for Reta right alongside Reta's daughters and granddaughters. Reta was preceded in death by Wendahl in 1986, her daughter Cathy Ryan in 2023, and son-in-law Richard Ash in 2014. Reta was a kind soul with a wonderful sense of humor whom everyone loved. She will be greatly missed. An Open House Memorial will be held on Saturday, March 29, 1-4 pm, at Reta's home: 1520 London Circle, Benicia.