Obituary of Rita Kay Burbridge

Rita Kay Burbridge, Beloved Daughter, Sister, Friend, and Caregiver, tragically passed away from natural causes on Wednesday evening, August 31^st, 2022.

She died suddenly in her home in Ocala, Florida, with her two beloved dogs, Chachi and Hunter. She was only 54 years old. 

Rita was born to Keith and Rita Burbridge in Waterloo, Iowa, the youngest of eight children. She is preceded in death by her parents and our eldest, Christine Lorelli. She is survived by her siblings Mary Kreger, John Burbridge, Joan Johnson, Keith (Mele) Burbridge, Joe (Carmen) Burbridge, Paul (Theresa) Burbridge, by her brothers in law, Ernie and Mark, and many nieces nephews, extended family members and dear friends.

Our beloved baby sister brought us kindness, happiness, and joy every day of her life. As a teenager, she excelled in competitive Tennessee Walking horse shows riding her beautiful horse, Annie. 

Rita Kay loved her dogs, plants, country property home, and especially her family, friends, and clients, whom she always felt privileged to serve. Her skill, patience, and love enriched many, especially during their end-of-life days. Rita’s career as a CNA and caregiver for people who needed kindness and help was her true calling. 

Our family was very blessed to experience this when our parents needed end-of-life care. She sacrificed everything, and with Joan took on the responsibility for them. She dedicated all her time and skill, and made their last days profoundly better, allowing them to die with dignity and grace, in their home, with our family. 

Our hearts are broken. We will always be blessed for her impact on our lives. We miss our beloved, funny, scrappy, tough, understanding and patient baby sister. Her wit and distinct laughter are singing in our hearts. 

We will celebrate Rita Kay’s life with a visitation at 11 AM and a memorial service at 12 PM, Saturday, September 10^th, at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Home, Timber Ridge, 9695 SW 110^th Street, Ocala, Florida, 34481.