Rita Cripps Sander, a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, a woman of elegance, grace, and unwavering Faith, peacefully but suddenly passed away on August 19, 2023, at the age of 85 in Picayune, Mississippi.  Her passing marked the end of a life lived with kindness, devotion, and profound love for her family and Catholic Faith.  Rita's journey on this earth was a testament to the enduring power of love and the impact of a life well-lived.

Born in New Orleans on October 13, 1937, Rita's life was a rich tapestry of experiences woven with threads of warmth, compassion, and an abiding love for those around her.  A devout Catholic, she found solace and strength in her Faith, allowing it to guide her through life's joys and challenges.  Her devotion to her Faith was an inspiration to her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.  She looked especially to the Blessed Virgin Mary as guidance to being a wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.

Rita's heart overflowed with love for her family, and she embraced her roles as a wife, mother, and grandmother with boundless devotion.  Her marriage to Emile E. Sander, III, for 65 years was a testament to their enduring love and commitment to one another.  Their love began over the exchange of letters while he was in the Navy and continued to blossom throughout their years.  Together, they truly had the perfect marriage and were wonderful parents to their four children.  Rita's passing marked her joyous reunion with Emile, her beloved husband, who had passed in December 2021.  Their love story now continues for eternity, a beacon of devotion and unity.

A woman of class, Rita's refined demeanor was matched only by her genuine kindness, approachability, and friendliness.  She had a remarkable gift for engaging in small talk with strangers, effortlessly making connections, and brightening the days of those she encountered.  Her ability to make others feel seen and valued was a true reflection of her generous, compassionate nature and testament to her Faith and love for all.

Rita's love for literature was another defining aspect of her life.  An avid reader, she found joy in the pages of books, often sharing her literary passions with those around her.  Her curiosity and intellectual spirit were a testament to her lifelong commitment to learning and personal growth.  And let us not forget that Rita was a wonderful cook, a love and skill she passed on to all her children.

Rita Cripps Sander's legacy lives on in the hearts of her children Emile E. Sander, IV [Kenna Sander], Eric Sander [Jeanette Sander], Elizabeth Rancatore [A.J. Rancatore], and Michelle Sander [John Webb], grandchildren (Kenna Stroop, Brittany Hess, and Gina Rancatore), three great-grandchildren, extended family, and friends, especially her dearest friend, Joann Paris.  Rita's memory will forever be carried forward through the love she gave, the religious Faith she held dear, and the impact she made on the lives she touched.  Rita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Emile, her parents, Captain James E. and Rita Lapour Cripps, and her sister, Catherine Cripps Parmley.  As we say our earthly goodbyes to Rita, we find comfort in the knowledge that she is now reunited with her beloved Emile, and that their love story continues in the embrace of heaven.  May her legacy of Faith, love, and kindness continue to inspire us all as we remember the beautiful soul that touched our lives.

Mom, we miss you dearly, but will see you again one day!  Thank you so very much for your love and caring!
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you offer masses, do a few acts of kindness for strangers, and read a book in her memory.

Relatives and friends are invited to the Memorial Mass at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church at 1000 Goodyear Blvd., Picayune, MS. on Friday, September 8, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m.  Interment will be held privately by the family in Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery, New Orleans, Louisiana.