Rita Saucedo

Rita May Saucedo, 68, passed away on June 12, 2026 at home after a courageous battle with lung cancer.

She was born in Portland, IN on August 24, 1957, the daughter of James Sr. and Anita (Ferguson) Sargent. Rita lived most of her life in Dunkirk and was a member of the first graduating class of Jay County High School in 1976.

Rita was a dedicated hard worker and was employed in manufacturing for many years, most recently retiring from MSSL in 2024. She enjoyed baking, reading, crocheting, and most of all, spending time with family. Her family looked forward to her pumpkin chocolate chip cookies and banana bread around the holidays every year.

Rita is survived by her five children, Amy Caldwell (Luke Sutton), Maria (Jason) Babb, Esteban Sargent, Erica Sargent (Jordan Croyle) and Felicia Hambrock and 16 grandchildren who lovingly called her Nana, Shelby (Keegan) Newsome, Brayden Hunt, Javy Sargent, Spencer Caldwell (Brielle McIntire), Ethan Hunt, Lucas Babb, Jace McCord, Javen Curtis, Kailyn Babb, Emma Croyle, Selene Hambrock, Kasin Franklin, Colson Babb, Lincoln Croyle, Ila Croyle and Carmine Gallo. She is also survived by 4 great-grandchildren, Scarlett, Alaina Jo, Taytum, and Rayna, sisters Diana Morales and Deborah Vanscyoc, sisters-in-law Babbette Sargent and Kristina Sargent and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers James Jr., Alan, and John Sargent, sister Betty (Peanut) Miller, and sister-in-law Diana Shaner Sargent.

Rita’s family would like to thank Heart to Heart Hospice, especially Carrie, Kelsey, and Rina, for their thoughtful and compassionate care.

Friends and family are welcome to attend visitation and services at Wiliamson-Spencer and Penrod Funeral Home in Portland. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026 from 4-6 p.m. at the funeral home. Services to celebrate Rita’s life will follow at 6 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be directed towards IU Health Ball Cancer Center in Muncie.