Rita Tafoya

Tafoya, Rita Ann of Saginaw, Michigan Beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister passed away peacefully, with her family by her side on Monday, January 29, 2018 at St. Mary's of Michigan. She was 78 years old. Rita Ann Allen was born on June 29, 1939 in Saginaw, Michigan to the late Richard and Elenore (Ferrelli) Allen. She married Herman L. Johnson; he preceded her in death on February 16, 1988. Rita then married Dennis "Taco" Tafoya; he preceded her in death on November 29, 1990. She was a proud 1957 graduate of Arthur Hill High School and a 1978 graduate of Delta College. Rita enlisted into the Women's Army Corps from 1958 to 1960. She was a member of St. John Paul II Parish and a former member of Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church. Rita was also a member of the Eagles and the Disabled American Veterans. She enjoyed playing Bingo and the lottery. Above all, she loved and cherished her family. She will forever be remembered for her selflessness to all and her giving spirit. Surviving are a son, Thomas Jed (Misty Jo) Johnson of Saginaw; five grandchildren: Thomas A. Rodriguez and Amber Jill Johnson of Saginaw, Elizabeth Johnson, Anthony L. Johnson, II, and Tressa Johnson of Oscoda; several great-grandchildren; four step-grandchildren: Ashley Zeitz, Brianna Zeitz, Caleb Zeitz and Andrew Peters, all of Saginaw; and a brother, Richard F. Allen, II. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by a son, Anthony Leon Johnson and two sisters: Barbara Wagner and Kathleen Kostick. FUNERAL: A Funeral Liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 2, 2018 at St. John Paul II Parish, St. Josaphat Catholic Church, 469 Shattuck Rd. Rev. Fr. Patrick J. O'Connor will officiate. Honoring Rita's wishes cremation will follow. Military Honors will follow the Mass at the church under the auspices of the United States Army and VFW Post #1859. VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State) on Thursday from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Rita will lie in state at the church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the family c/o Thomas J. Johnson. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home, church or through www.deislerfuneralhome.com.