Obituary: Rita Gale Westfall

Rita Gale Westfall, also known as Nana, passed away on March 23, 2024, in Glendale, AZ, at the age of 77. She was born on November 28, 1946, in Plainview, TX, to the late Hubert Whan Griffith and Martha Josephine Wells. Rita was preceded in death by her father, mother, and sister, Barbara Joan Griffith.

Rita had a fulfilling career working at the Federal Reserve Bank, as a beautician, and at Sally Beauty Supply and various auto dealerships. She brought joy to those she worked with. She had a smile that would melt your heart.

Rita is survived by her husband of 58 years and 8 months, Gary D Westfall (AKA "her worst half") of Anthem AZ and her loving children: Kelly Tipton of Clovis, NM , Gary P Westfall of Anthem, AZ , and Tracy Faircloth of Holmesville, OH. She is also survived by her 7 cherished Grandchildren: Jared Westfall, Jordan Tipton, Zach Holmes, Emilee Cockrell, Kaylyn Westfall, Spencer Tipton and Matthew Holmes. In addition, she is survived by 11 Great Grandchildren. All of those mentioned here, she loved seeing them, holding them and kissing them. Rita cherished her role as a mother, a grandmother, and great grandmother and leaves behind beautiful memories for her family to hold dear. She is also survived by her brother: James David Griffith of Ft. Worth, Texas.

In her free time, Rita enjoyed bowling, playing tennis, and reading and journaling about the Bible. She found solace and inspiration in her Bible reading. Her Bible was left open to the pages she was reading. She would underline each sentence as she read it. Illness prevented her from reading the past 6 weeks, here is where she stopped.

"Our Lord, you are eternal! Your word will last as long as the heavens. You remain faithful in every generation, and the earth you created will keep standing firm. All things are your servants, and the laws you made are still in effect today. If I had not found happiness in obeying your Law, I would have died in misery. I won't ever forget your teachings, because you give me new life when I follow them. I belong to you, and I have respected your laws, so keep me safe."

Psalms 119:89-94 CEV

A funeral service to honor Rita's life will be held at Lemons Funeral Home, 206 W 8th, Plainview, TX, on April 6, 2024, at 1:00 PM.

"The family would like to extend their gratitude to Lemons Funeral Home for their assistance during this difficult time. Rita will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her smile attracted everyone who saw her. Strangers would approach her to talk. I miss you, but I am so happy you are pain free and dancing with Jesus. Reunited with your loving Mom and Dad brings joy to my heart. You and your sister can now continue to be together. What joy you brought to my life Honey, thank you for being my bride." Gary.