Rita D. Bennett, 67, former resident of Deming passed away peacefully Monday May 22, 2017.

Rita was born June 2, 1949 in Las Vegas, New Mexico to Roscoe and Nora Atwater. She met her husband Johnny in Silver City in 1968 and they were married in 1971. Two years later, they were blessed with the first of their two daughters. Rita remained at home while the girls were young, and worked outside the home for several years as the girls grew older. She held several jobs throughout her career, most notably working at Deming Bonded Warehouse, which she retired from after 15 years of service. Rita and Johnny were a great team and had many great adventures together including building their last home together. They were married for 41 years, until his untimely passing in 2012, after which Rita moved to Las Cruces to be closer to her immediate family.

Rita was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and a doting great grandmother. All who knew her considered themselves fortunate to have her in their lives, and they miss her more every day.

She is survived by her daughters, Carin Bennett and Christi Bennett; her granddaughter Jessica, her great grandson Nathaniel, her sister Lola Drake; her brothers Ervin, Dennis and Larry Atwater; and her faithful K-9 companion, Cheyenne.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday May 30, 2017 at Mt. View Cemetery. Sam Hammond will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Humane Society in your area.