Rita McCallum a beloved matriarch and community figure known for her dedication to education has passed away peacefully in her home on February 16, 2023.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Rita’s family moved to California at a young age and she graduated from Mt. Diablo High School and San Jose State University. After college, Rita became an elementary school teacher for more than 20 years.
In 1977, Rita and her husband, Jim, moved to Morro Bay. There they founded the Estero Bay Day School. For the next 20 years, they dedicated their lives to educating and nurturing countless children in the community. She was remembered by many as going above and beyond as an educator through gifts of kindness, being fair, and making sure every child felt special.
In addition to her work as an educator, Rita was an active member and past president of Quota International for over 40 years. Quota is an international service organization that provides aid to women, children and the hard of hearing.
Rita impacted the lives of so many people around her, and her memory will live strong in the hearts of those she touched. She will be deeply missed by her husband, Jim McCallum; her daughters April Hendricks (Danny Smith) of Arroyo Grande, Laura Rianda (Terry) of Nipomo, Lisa Rogers (Scott Vickery) of Northern California; her sons Mark Rogers (Kim Stahl) and Gary McCallum of Nipomo, her grandchildren Chris Rogers (Stacey Barker) of Austin, Texas, Rodney Tindall (Jen Uzonyi) of Arroyo Grande, Ashley Tow of Solvang, Chelsea McConnell (Chris) and Chloe Rogers of San Luis Obispo. Survived by her pride and joy, great-grandchildren Parker, Zane, and Elias,
May she rest in peace and her legacy flourish while continuing to inspire others to make a positive difference in the world. A celebration of her life will follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Quota International of Morro Bay so they may continue to do the great work our mother was so proud to be a part of.
