Rita Elizabeth Harvey

HARVEY, Rita Elizabeth 1939 - 2025

After a wonderful life filled with laughter and love, Rita left us on October 27, 2025, at the age of eighty-six. She endured a long and determined battle with dementia and passed away peacefully with family by her side. Heartfelt thanks to her longtime caregivers Joan, Darren, Cecil, and J Lo who provided loving and devoted support to Rita for several years during her illness. Additional thanks to the wonderful and dedicated staff of South Granville Park Lodge who cared for her over the last two years.

Rita was born and raised in the small seaside town of Bangor, Northern Ireland, the fourth child of five. After completing her secretarial school education and working in Northern Ireland as a stenographer, she emigrated to Canada, firstly to Winnipeg and then on to Vancouver.

In 1968 after marrying Donald, the love of her life, she spent the next number of years raising their two children. Rita later re-entered the workforce at the Vancouver School Board where she continued to work until her retirement. Predeceased by her husband Donald, she will live on in the memories of her children and granddaughters, and will be lovingly remembered by her siblings, in-laws, extended family and dearest friends.

Rita and Donald lived their lives to the fullest and travelled extensively with friends and family. One of their fondest memories was of their travels through the South Pacific islands and New Zealand. Those who knew her will remember Rita for her creativity in knitting, playing piano, and painting, her love of gardening, her tenderness, and warm conversations over a cup of tea or a glass of wine.

A service to celebrate Rita's life will be held on Friday, May 1 at 11:00 am PST at St. Philip's Anglican Church, 3737 West 27th Avenue, Vancouver. Streaming link may be found on the church’s website. https://www.stphilipsdunbar.com/

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Arbutus Shaughnessy Kerrisdale Friendship Centre at www.askcentre.ca/donate-online/. Rita spent many great days at ASK Friendship Centre where she enjoyed socializing and participating in the programs that they provide for older adults.

Walkey & Company Funeral Directors (604) 738 – 0006