Rita M. Kilby

Rita M Kilby, 97, of Millsboro, DE passed away on August 22, 2025 at Brandywine Senior Living in Selbyville, DE. Brandywine has been her home for the past 12 years. She was much loved by all the residents, caregivers and staff. All knew Rita as the smiling "greeter" on the loveseat in the reception area. She loved her "people" at Brandywine and all the activities, happy hours and special events they planned. She was known for her dancing, karaoke and sense of humor. She was the life of the party. She was very particular about her clothes, hair, jewelry and shoes and loved her glass of white wine or occasional "highball".

Rita was born March 15, 1928 in Washington, DC., daughter of Mary Catherine (O'Brien) of Halifax, Nova Scotia and Alexander Jamieson Gray of Bathgate, Edinburgh, Scotland.

Rita was an avid reader, loved the adventure of travel, animals, especially her dogs and her birds. She was very patriotic and loved celebrating the various holidays and paying tribute to the veterans. She belonged to many of the local veterans' organizations. She loved the theater and often participated in small productions at work and locally. She was a federal employee and worked at various clerical positions but her favorite was with the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Md before retirement to Millsboro De.

Rita is survived by her daughter, Rita Jamieson-Gray of Lewes, DE, and grandchildren, Ellen Allocca of Annapolis MD, Brian Arnold of Pasadena, MD, Eric Arnold of Kennett Square, PA, Jennifer Soirees of Seaford, DE and 5 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, Charles Arnold and daughter, Carolyn Arnold.

A private remembrance will be held by the family.