Rita Mae Call

Rita Mae Wakefield Call, born in Winthrop, Maine, on June 25, 1932, returned to her Father in Heaven at age 92 on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, leaving a legacy of love and resilience. Rita was the treasured daughter of Guy and Nellie Wakefield and a dear sister to Fay, Nita, and Zita with whom she shared a deep and enduring bond.

As a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, she was and is a pillar of strength and grace to all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and unwavering commitment to her family, friends, and community. She spent her life striving to be a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ and serving valiantly in her community, always finding ways to help others and bring joy to those around her. Her laughter and sweet spirit comforted many, and her memory will be cherished by all who knew her.

On June 5, 1953, Rita married Clarence Eliason Call in Biloxi, Mississippi. Later they were sealed together in Logan, Utah for all time and eternity, beginning a beautiful journey that spanned decades and enriched many lives. Rita was a devoted mother to her seven children. She cherished each moment with her family, finding joy in their accomplishments and supporting them through life’s challenges. She was also an honorary mother figure to many others throughout her life. 

Rita was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters; her beloved daughters Gaylene Jensen, SuEllyn Mortensen, Jolene Elmer; her son-in-law, David Jensen, and her devoted husband, Clarence. She is survived by her loving family, including her sons Christian Call, Benson Call, Matiu Call, his wife Jenny; her youngest daughter Fay Wassom, along with her husband, Stephen; her son-in-law, DeeVere Mortensen, his wife Rosemary; and her son-in-law Patrick Elmer. 

Her family legacy extends to 18 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren, each holding a special place in her heart. Rita was also grateful for her precious relationship with her lifelong friend Vicki and her family, the Reynolds.

As a woman of many talents, she shared her love through cooking, baking, sewing, knitting, crocheting, and writing poetry. She had many jobs throughout her life. In her early years, she was a secretary for a shipping business and worked in insurance. After children, she worked as a bookkeeper and managed a storage business. In addition, she provided loving childcare for families in her community. Her compassion continued to shine into her later years. She and her husband faithfully devoted 18 months of their lives to serving a full-time mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in London, England. Upon returning she became a caregiver for the elderly. Her dedication and service will always be remembered by those whose lives she touched.

Her warmth, wisdom, and spunky humor left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate to know her. Her presence on earth will be greatly missed. 

Friends and family are invited to gather to celebrate Rita’s life on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel, located at 8583 Watt Ave, Antelope, CA, 95626 The viewing will commence at 10:30 AM and the funeral service will begin at 11:30 AM. Interment will take place in Idaho at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to continue Rita's legacy of kindness through small acts of charity to anyone in your path. Share a smile, a helping hand, or brighten someone's day, just as she did. Let her spirit live on through each thoughtful gesture.