Rita Kay Vanlaningham, 75, a resident of Milford, passed away at Goshen Hospital Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023. She had struggled with several health issues in recent years.

Born on Jan. 13, 1947, Rita was one day shy of her 76th birthday. She was born in Goshen to the late Louie and Betty (Albert) Hare. She attended Milford Schools and called Kosciusko County home for more than 60 years.

Professionally, Rita worked at Walter Drugs and subsequently at Pill Box Pharmacy in Miford for 26 years. She was a hard worker, providing for her young family on her own for many years.

More personally, Rita is remembered for her love of card games, especially Euchre and Pinochle and her collection of cow figurines. She also liked trying her luck at the Casino and had enjoyed ceramics and Macrame. More than anything, Rita was dedicated to her family.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in passing by son, Troy Stephenson; grandson, Dustin Stephenson; brother, John Hare and an infant sister.

She is survived by two children, Kelly (David) Warrick of Mesa, Ariz., and Jay (Petra DeFreeuw) Vanlaningham of Milford.

Titus Funeral Home of Syracuse is entrusted with Rita’s care. The family is grieving privately. A graveside service will be announced in the spring with interment in Milford Cemetery. Those wishing to send sympathy to the family may do so on Rita’s obituary page at www.TitusFuneralHome.com