January 9, 1932 – December 3, 2025
Rita Chandler died peacefully in her beloved Auburn, Alabama on December 3, 2025. Born in San Antonio, Texas on January 9, 1932, her 93 years were lived with love, devotion, duty and deep faith in her Savior Jesus.
After numerous moves around the country, she ended up in Alabama, where she graduated from Phillips High School in Birmingham in 1950. College days brought her to Auburn University where she majored in education, graduating with her BS in Education in 1954. It was as a freshman on a beautiful fall day in 1950 when she met the love of her life, Gene Chandler. They graduated from Auburn, married the very next day, and were blessed to celebrate 71 years of marriage.
Rita excelled in many different roles throughout her life, as a first-grade teacher, a Girl Scout leader, teaching English as a second language, and a card ministry where she touched hundreds of people with her handmade creations. But, the roles she loved, and had the greatest influence, were as a wife, mother and as “MamaRita” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The impact she had on her future generations will pay dividends for eternity. Rita often said her only regret in going to heaven was being separated from her beloved Gene. The love and devotion she exhibited to her husband and family has been a beautiful example to her family and friends. She has given us all a worthy goal for which to strive.
Rita was preceded in death by her father and mother, Thomas and Mary Rivas (Sr.) and her brother Thomas Rivas (Jr.). She is survived by her husband W.E. (Gene) Chandler of Auburn, AL; daughter Linda Lott (Chuck) of Advance, NC; son Tom Chandler (Robin) of Birmingham, AL; grandchildren Kathryn Chastain (Aaron), Tyler Chandler (Kayla), Hannah Lott (Jordan, engaged) and Tripp Lott (Elizabeth). She is also survived by eight great-grandchildren: Annie, Jacob, Sophie, Nora and Thomas Chastain; and Lillian, Chloe and William Chandler.
A celebration of life service will be held at Frederick – Dean Funeral Home Chapel on 1801 Frederick Road, Opelika, AL 36801 at 10:30 am Monday, December 22, 2025, with visitation at 10 am prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Food Bank of East Alabama, 355 Industry Drive, Auburn, AL 36832. Rita and Gene were part of a small volunteer committee that, in conjunction with the City of Auburn, created the Food Bank. It has grown and expanded through the years, feeding thousands in the seven-county operation.
Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisting the family with all arrangements.
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