Rita M. Popelas – White Oak
Rita M. Popelas, 92, of White Oak, died April 3, 2019, at Allegheny General Hospital. Born May 3, 1926, in East McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Guy W. and Julia Ann Betz Hampton and the wife of the late Carl F. Popelas. Rita retired from McKeesport Area School District, where she was an English teacher. She was a summa cum laude graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, where she earned a master’s degree in education. She was a member of Pi Lambda Theta Honor Sorority, one of the nation’s most prestigious education honor societies. Rita was recognized as teacher of the year and was listed in the Congressional Record. She was a member of the McKeesport College Club and the National Honor Society. As a very intelligent woman, she kept her mind sharp by working crossword puzzles, crypto quotes and word searches. Rita also enjoyed observing nature, especially watching wildlife that frequently visited her backyard. Her greatest joy was attending family functions and time spent with her grandchildren. Rita is survived her by her sons, John (Carol) Popelas of Millsboro, Del., and Richard (Diana) Popelas of North Huntingdon; grandchildren, Theresa (Scott) Callaway, Angela (Rob) Isaacs, Carl (Cindy) Popelas, Aaron (April) Popelas, Allison Popelas and Brad Popelas; great-grandchildren, Jessica, Ryan, Shawn, Jasper, Cora, Julia, John, Courtney, Ava, Lexie, Caden, Kaylee and Myla; brother, James (Dolores) Hampton of N.C.; nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Rita was preceded in death by siblings, William Hampton, Robert Hampton and Delores Serro. Family and friends will be received at JAYCOX-JAWORSKI FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, 2019. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday at Corpus Christi Church. Committal and burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery of Port Vue. Memorial contributions are suggested to Corpus Christi Parish, 2515 Versailles Ave., McKeesport, Pa 15132. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.jaycox-jaworskifh.com.
