Rita Kay Sullivan

On Monday, June 17, 2019, Rita Kay Sullivan went to be with the Lord at the age of 86.  Rita was born in Chicago, Illinois to William and Elizabeth Moosbrugger on December 20, 1932. Throughout Rita’s younger years her father’s military profession allowed Rita to experience life in a variety of places across Illinois and Maryland. She spent her teen years living with her grandmother in Hollywood, California. It was during this time that Rita attended Normandy Junior High where she sang in the choir with Carol Burnett and enjoyed play-dates with “the Disney girls.” Rita returned to Virden, Illinois during her junior year of high school. It was during that time that Rita met the love of her life, Robert Eugene Sullivan. Both Rita and Robert graduated from high school in 1950. After graduation Robert joined the US Navy and served in the Korean Conflict while Rita began working for Franklin Life Insurance, in their hometown of Virden. The two were married during a beautiful candlelight service at the Methodist Church on December 9, 1951. Once Robert returned from the war the two took over the Sullivan family farm and began having children. They welcomed their first child in 1952, a daughter named Marcia Anne. Four years and three months later they welcomed their son, Martin Eugene.  In 1962 Robert and Rita moved the family to Albuquerque, NM in two matching turquoise Ford pick-up trucks.

After raising her children Rita returned to the work force. Rita retired from her profession after serving 20 years with the State of New Mexico where she worked as an Administrative Secretary. Throughout her retirement she enjoyed a variety of activities. Rita was an avid reader, a crossword puzzles wordsmith, and a sleuth at Sudoku puzzles. She also enjoyed many afternoons visiting with family and friends, watching television, and spending time with her beloved dog, Soozie.

Rita was preceded in death by her loving husband of 32 years, Robert Eugene Sullivan. Her beautiful life will forever be cherished by her loving family including her daughter, Marcia Anne (Sullivan) Hisey of Elephant Butte, New Mexico and her son Marty Sullivan and his wife Jama of Albuquerque. As well as her grandchildren, LeeAnn Gail (Hisey) Gatti and her husband Brian of Albuquerque.  Dustin Eugene Sullivan and his wife Nicole of Ventura, California. Jennifer Renee (Hisey) Souter and her husband Josh, and Samantha Gayle (Sullivan) Lucero and her husband Damon also of Albuquerque. Rita will also be fondly remembered by her four great-grandchildren, Mikayla Louise Sullivan, Kendra Kay Sullivan, Madeline Sullivan, and Tristan Lee Souter.

A Funeral Service and Celebration of Rita’s Life will take place Friday, June 21, 2019, 10:00 a.m., at FRENCH - Lomas with Reception and Burial to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, www.alzfdn.org.