Rita Jean Petty

Rita Jean Petty, aged 74, peacefully departed this life on Friday, March 15th, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones at home, following a brave fight against ALS. She was born in Zanesville, Ohio, to Robert and Irene Boyd.

Rita treasured her family, celebrated her Irish roots and was passionate about writing. Her love for literature and poetry brought joy to those around her. In her community, she impacted numerous families through her role as a children’s librarian at the Calcasieu Parish Public Library. She was a seasoned traveler, well-versed in worldly affairs and loved to engage in lengthy discussions about politics.

Surviving Rita and holding her memory dear are her husband, Steve Petty; her children, Theo Klaase, Terra Klaase and Erin Gibson; her stepchildren; Jesse Lambert, Allen Petty, William Petty and Scott Gibson; her siblings; Irene Boyd, Pat Bentrump, Katie King, Elizabeth Boyd, Bob Boyd, along with his wife Helen Schwartzhoff; and special friend, Marty Berry.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents, as well as her former husbands, Max Gibson and Norbert Soileau.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on March 19, 2024, at 2:00 P.M. at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, 221 Aqua Dr, Lake Charles, LA. 70605. An Irish wake will be held following the mass.