Rita Beck

Rita Elizabeth (Tomlinson) Beck, 98, of Hollidaysburg, formerly of Altoona, died Friday at UPMC Altoona after a brief illness due to COVID-19. She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late Clement J. and Mary Elizabeth (Sutton) Tomlinson.

Rita married Richard M. Beck on Nov. 29, 1959, at St. Leo’s Catholic Church, Altoona. He preceded her in death March 10, 2010. She was previously married to Zane Hunter Wagner, who preceded her in death.

Rita retired in 1999 as a seamstress at Country Loft with eight years of service. She was previously a self-employed seamstress.

She was a member of Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Altoona.

Rita was a 1940 graduate of Altoona Catholic High School. She enjoyed being a seamstress, painting, crafts and was an avid reader.

She is survived by four daughters: Donna Wagner (Anthony) Lombardo of Ashville, Kathleen Wagner of Altoona, Susan (Patrick) Myers of Ashville and Lynn (fiance, Kirk Nash) Stellabotte of Altoona; and a sister Mary Untrauer of Hollidaysburg, formerly of Pennsylvania Furnace. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren; 10 great-  grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.

Rita was preceded in death by a daughter, Jeannie Steele; and eight siblings.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 27, 2021, at Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Altoona, with Father Dennis Kurdziel, celebrant.

Committal Rites will be held at Calvary Cemetery Altoona.

Friends will be received from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 26, 2021, at Jones Funeral Home, Altoona, where a vigil for the deceased will be celebrated during the visitation.

In memory of Rita, please make contributions to Garvey Manor Nursing Home, 1037 S. Logan Blvd., Hollidaysburg, PA 16648.

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