Dear Friends, Family, and Kind Strangers

My name is Daulton Pence and I’m reaching out with a heavy heart to share that we’ve lost my incredible mom, Rita Pence, far too soon. Her passing was so unexpected, and we’re struggling to process the void she’s left behind. Mom was a true gem—a free-spirited hippie with a heart full of love for her family, nature, and all living things. She was the kind of person who’d stop to admire a wildflower, spend time tending to her beloved plants, or light up at the sight of her dogs. The beach was her happy place, where she’d soak in the waves and let her soul shine.

Mom’s love was boundless. She gave so much of herself to us, her friends, and even strangers, always with a warm smile and an open heart. Now, we want to honor her with a funeral that celebrates the beautiful, vibrant woman she was. We also dream of placing a headstone that captures her wild, loving spirit. Any extra funds will go to addiction treatment services in her name.

We’re turning to you, our community, because we need help to make this happen. Funeral costs are overwhelming, and we want to give her the send-off she deserves without the added stress. Every donation, big or small, means the world to us. If you can’t give, sharing this page with others would be such a gift.

Thank you from the depths of our hearts for helping us celebrate my mother’s life and keep her light shining. Your support is carrying us through this heartbreak.

With all our love,

Daulton Pence and Family