Rita Lou (Pierro) Mitchell

Rita Lou (Pierro) Mitchell, 77, passed over to her heavenly home unexpectedly on Thursday, December 29, 2022. She was born in Harlingen, Texas on July 26, 1945, and after living a few years with her family in Kingsville and Corpus Christi, she moved with her family back to Harlingen in 1960.

Rita lived all of her adult life in Harlingen where she met and married Billy Mitchell on December 23, 1966. They raised two sons and shared forty-five years together until Billy’s passing in 2011.

In addition to her husband, Rita was preceded in death by her son, Shane Mitchell; granddaughter, Cheyenne Mitchell, father, Louis Pierro, and stepfather, Ralph McClanahan. She is survived by her son, Cody Mitchell; grandchildren, Christopher and Casey, mother, Margaret “Maggie” McClanahan; sister, Sandy Pierro McAfee (Dave); aunt, Roxie George; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews; and a long list of extended family and friends.

Rita was a valued employee of Republic Services for over twenty-five years until her retirement ten years ago. For many years, she battled numerous health issues but would downplay their effects on her and was always reluctant to impose on anyone for help. Rita was sensitive, selfless, loyal, and loving. However, her wonderful sense of humor is what people will remember the most about her especially those who fell prey to her many practical jokes! She would tell the funniest stories that would leave you breathless with laughing.

Rita loved music and dancing! She always had a radio or record player going in the house and would frequently dance her way through the house. Nevertheless, her family was her life and primary focus and she fiercely loved her children and grandchildren. She will be so missed and forever loved by all who were blessed enough to have her in their lives. You can rest now sweet Rita, no more pain or suffering, only joy and well-deserved rest.

The family will receive relatives and friends on Wednesday, January 4, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Buck Ashcraft San Benito Funeral Home. Rita’s Homegoing Service will take place Thursday, January 5, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow at Mont Meta Memorial Park. Afterwards, family and friends will gather for a fellowship in the family lounge of the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, you are invited to honor Rita by making a memorial contribution to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital ( www.shorturl.at/pU159 ).

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