Rita Jacinto

Rita Jacinto, a beloved member of her community and a dedicated professional, passed away on January 18, 2025, at Baylor Scott and White Hillcrest in Waco, Texas. Born on November 13, 1966, in Waco, she was known for her loving spirit, intelligence, and strength.

Rita began her professional journey at McLennan Community College in March of 1990, starting as a Junior Programmer and Computer Operator. Through hard work and dedication, she progressed within the institution to become the Director of Administrative Systems and Services in Fall 2012. After 33 years of noteworthy service, Rita retired in August 2023 as the Manager of Administrative Systems.

Her educational accomplishments were equally impressive. Rita attended Waco High School, demonstrating her commitment to excellence by being a member of the Varsity cheerleading squad and volleyball team. She graduated from Waco High in the Class of 1985, participating in the graduation commencement at Kerrville High School and achieving a position academically in the top 10% of her class. Furthering her education, she attended McLennan Community College on an academic scholarship, graduating with honors in 1992 with an associate degree in applied science for computer data processing/programming. Rita's pursuit of knowledge continued as she earned her bachelor’s degree in computer information systems technology from the University of Texas at Brownsville in Spring 2012.

Rita had a passion for travel and explored numerous destinations, including Costa Rica, Ireland, Tennessee, New York City, Pensacola, New Orleans, San Francisco, and several cities across Texas. In addition to her spirit of adventure, she dedicated her time to volunteering at Waco Habitat for Humanity, where she later became a board member after her retirement, continuing to give back to the community she loved.

Rita shared many cherished moments with her beloved son, Reginald Eugene Davis III, whom she welcomed into the world on January 22, 1995. Her love for her family was boundless, extending to her father, Cecil Jacinto; mother, Eva Fuentes; her brother, Cecil (Pepe) Jacinto, III.; and her sister, Regina McCutchen and their families. They will forever carry the warmth of her spirit and the lessons she imparted throughout her life.

Rita was a loving wife to her late husband, Rick (Ricky) Davis, whom she married on July 22, 1985 in Los Angeles, California after meeting him in the summer of 1983 at the Waco Boy's & Girl's Club in North Waco. They later divorced in 2002 after spending nearly 20 years together.

Rita’s battle with stage 4 breast cancer, diagnosed in August 2015, was a testament to her incredible strength and resilience. She fought tirelessly for 10 years, inspiring those around her with her courage.

A Celebration of Life for Rita will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Waco Memorial Funeral Home.

Rita Jacinto’s legacy of love, strength, and service will forever remain in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Waco Habitat for Humanity, www.wacohabitat.org or to St. Jude’s's Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org