Submit a PhotoRita Leede Davis, 80, was suddenly called home on February 1, 2021 in Gilbert, Arizona of heart failure. She was born October 14, 1940 in Münchehagen, Hanover, Germany to Johann Gustav Theodor Leede and Lina Minna Karoline Wesemann. In 1952, Rita immigrated to the United States of America with her parents and sister, Margrit, through Ellis Island and settled in Salt Lake City. Rita became a Naturalized Citizen of the U.S. at age 19.
She graduated from South High School in Salt Lake City and attended the University of Utah where she studied stenography and music, and where she eventually met Robert L. Davis of Richfield, Utah in music theory class. They were sealed in the Salt Lake City Temple on June 2, 1961.
Rita worked as a stenographer and typist at Hercules Powder Company (an aerospace firm) while putting Robert through school. In 1966, Rita and Robert began their most meaningful journey as parents when they welcomed their son, Robert Leede Davis, into their family. Three years later, they added another bundle of joy, Jennifer Davis, and raised their family in Bountiful, Utah.
Work brought the Davises to San Ramon, California, Beaverton, Oregon, and Watsonville, California. The Davises moved to Gilbert, Arizona in 2008 to be close to Jennifer and her family.
Modest by nature, Rita always deflected attention away from herself to others, building them and making everyone feel like a true VIP. In addition to loving and caring for her family, which included making exquisite food and desserts, she also provided thousands of handknit blankets and hats to the homeless and people in need. Her gentle and encouraging touch made her a beloved primary and Sunday school teacher. Any interaction with Rita left you feeling full of good food, compliments and love.
Rita was calmed by the peace of a forest, moved by majestic music and inspired by the noblest of thoughts and words. All these things informed and affirmed her humble yet unshakable faith and love for God and her Savior, Jesus Christ.
Rita’s legacy will continue through her beloved husband, Robert L. Davis; children, Robert (Tiffany) Davis, & Jennifer (Travis) Cullimore; and her eight grandchildren, Alexandra, Christian, Warren, and Johanna Davis, & Davis, Garner, Bennett, and Elizabeth Cullimore. She is also survived by her sister, Margrit White, who was her only sibling.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday February 13, 2021 in Bountiful, Utah by invitation only. All are invited to watch the service online at canyonparkward.com. Anyone is welcome to attend graveside dedication services which will be held at 12:30 p.m. at the Bountiful City Cemetery, located at 2224 S 200 W, Bountiful, Utah. Floral donations can be made at jimmysflowers.com in Bountiful, Utah.
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Rita has always been so inclusive and kind-hearted. I’m glad we are blessed to know her and love her. Our thoughts are with you, Uncle Robert, Pres. & Sis Davis, and Jennifer & Travis and all of your adorable children, whom I’m sure will all feel her spirit near as they think of her in the future. We pray that you will feel the peace that only Jesus Christ can provide during this tender time.
I was so blessed to be Rita’s visiting teacher for a number of years I dearly loved her and admired her courage and her desire to please. She was gracious enough to knit dozens of beanies for children at my daughter-in-law’s Head Start classroom for Christmas for several years. The children were so exited about their hats that they wore them almost every day…even into the warm Arizona spring. She will be so missed.
Rita and I were kindred spirits sharing the same birthday. We shared so many similar interests: A love of her homeland Germany and the German language, a love of classical music, a love of the scriptures and favorite apostles, a love of beautiful plants and gardening, a love of classical movies. Just to name a few. My daughter Jessica and I were so privileged to spend Thursday afternoons in her home while she patiently tutored us in basic knitting and crocheting. She generously baked us cookies and brownies and shared so many of her delicious treats. She is gifted in so many areas. She knitted and donated warm winter hats fir the Navajo children where my husband was working. She always had a cheerful countenance. Most importantly she made Jessica feel valued and accomplished throughout her struggles with crocheting. I love you Rita.
I love you mom. I am taking good care of dad. We miss and love you. Jennifer
I love and miss you Mom. -Jennifer