Rita Morgan Miller

Rita Lynette Morgan Miller was born on March 5, 1953, in Galveston, Texas. She was one of three children born to Fletcher Morgan and Alice Riggins Morgan. Rita grew up in Thompsons, Texas, and graduated from Lamar Consolidated High School (LCISD). Following graduation, she attended Prairie View A&M University, where she formed friendships that would last a lifetime. Rita carried a deep commitment to honoring and preserving the legacy of her parents. She played a central role in having a school within LCISD named in her father’s honor—Fletcher Morgan Jr. Elementary. Rita devoted countless hours volunteering on campus, where she quickly became affectionately known as Panther Nana. She joyfully served as the keynote speaker for the 5th grade graduation each year since the school opened its doors on January 4, 2022. Whenever the school called, Rita proudly pulled into her reserved parking spot, ready to serve in any way needed. The school community brought tremendous joy to her life, and even in her final days, she was there reading books on Black History to the students. During her years at Lamar, Rita met a classmate named Clyde. The two quickly grew fond of each other, and by graduation they walked proudly, side by side. Their love blossomed into a lifelong partnership, and on February 5, 1972, Rita and Clyde were united in marriage. Together, they built a warm and loving home in Thompsons, Texas, and welcomed three beautiful daughters: Alicia Michelle, Colette Nicole, and Kristin Lynette. She also served her community with dedication, holding the role of Alderman on the Thompsons City Council from 1979 to 2019. Among her many contributions, Rita was instrumental in the development of the town’s city hall and community center. She loved giving back to her community and spent countless hours volunteering. One of her favorite quotes was, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” And that is exactly how she lived her life. She was a proud member of the Fort Bend Optimist Club and loved serving as a grand juror for Fort Bend County after her retirement. The number of organizations blessed by her involvement is far too great to name. In her early years as a mother, Rita delighted in making homemade pancakes for Clyde and the girls and planning special activities for the children in the neighborhood. She organized aerobics at the city fire department and Hallelujah Night at Mt. Pilgrim. She loved her children, but enjoyed doting over her grands even more. She loved them with her whole heart and had a remarkable gift for spending meaningful, individual time with each of them. Nana always knew exactly what each child needed, and she was unfailingly present—supporting their passions, whether it was dance, basketball, choir, or any activity that brought them joy. And when the grandkids joined an organization, Nana joined right along with them. She especially loved her role as “Dance Nana.” Her hobbies included crafting, decorating for the holidays, entertaining her friends, and her ultimate passion—scrapbooking. Many can attest to the joy of receiving a surprise scrapbook in the mail. Rita had an exceptional eye for capturing life’s most special moments and preserving them in the most beautiful way. She also cherished bonding with her sisters-in-law and the Housewives and Dining Divas friend groups. Rita faithfully served at Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church before joining Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Sugar Land, Texas, in 2002. At Friendship, she was a devoted member of the Women’s Choir, the Education Committee, the Care & Concern Committee, and the Pastor’s Anniversary Committee. She found immense joy in planning church events alongside her best friend, Melinda—the two lovingly known as M&M. Most recently, Rita was appointed Trustee, a role she cherished deeply. Her church, her pastor, and her church family held a very special place in her heart. Rita began her career in public service in November 1974, serving at the Texas Agrilife Extension Service-Expanded Nutrition Program in Richmond, Texas. In 1977, she joined the County Clerk’s Office as the Lead Criminal Clerk. In 1993, she became a Probate Auditor for the County Court at Law No. 1 and No. 2 judges. At the time of her retirement, she had proudly served Fort Bend County for 35 years. For more than 30 years, Rita dedicated her time and talents to the Butterfly Project Inc. As Program Director, she helped guide teenage girls toward positive life choices. She exposed them to new experiences through community service, college tours, travel opportunities, and the organization’s annual empowerment conference. Many of these young women went on to earn college degrees, build successful careers, and later return as mentors—an enduring testament to Rita’s influence. Rita was deeply passionate about volunteerism and held a tender place in her heart for all children. On Sunday, February 8, 2026, Rita traded the cares of this world for her crown in glory. We are confident she skipped joyfully into Heaven and immediately began coordinating the next heavenly event. Rita was such a loving and caring soul, and we often wondered where she found the capacity to care for so many. Rita was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Clyde; her brother, Dennis LaRue Morgan; and her sister, Nadie LaShalle Wade. Rita’s beautiful life and loving spirit will forever be cherished by her three children: Alicia McKnight (Kenneth), Colette Edwards (Devin), and Kristin (fiancé, Joaquin). She leaves behind nine grandchildren—Morgan McKnight (Josh), Makayla McKnight, Grayson Edwards, Joaquin Martinez, Mya McKnight, Martin Martinez, Aracely Martinez, Efrain Martinez, and Benjamin Martinez; her aunt, Juanita Williams of Houston; her sisters in love Jessie G. Lewis, Ivory Miller, and Debra Edwards; her godchildren, Marcus and Latasha Taylor; her best friends, Melinda and Nelson Morgan; her granddogs—Maddox Edwards, Max McKnight, and Layla Edwards; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, adopted children, and cherished friends. Services for Rita Morgan Miller will be held at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, February 19, 2026 at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 16138 W. Bellfort Avenue, Sugar Land, Texas 77498. Burial to follow at Edwards Cemetery in Thompsons, Texas. Visitation will begin at 11:30 a.m. at the church.

Tributes

Rita Morgan Miller

March 5, 1953 - February 8, 2026