Orita “Rita” Hogue Keebaugh
July 19, 1941 - September 14, 2023
Orita was a true force of nature. In Orita’s 82 years, she lived an extremely full and adventurous life with many different chapters. She was born in San Jose, CA to Randall and Lillian Hogue. Orita found her final resting place here in Gardnerville, NV surrounded by her dedicated caregivers and loving family.
Orita was born a twin but being the only survivor, she oftentimes referred to herself as a “twin-less twin.” From birth, she was resilient and a survivor. Orita went on to graduate from James Lick High School where she was a cheerleader and member of the Jazz Band. She then attended San Jose City College and was a lifelong learner receiving many certifications throughout her life. In her 20’s, Orita fell in love with and married Charles “Chuck” Keebaugh and moved to Alpine County, CA where they had two beautiful children Dayla Keebaugh Marsh and Clayton Keebaugh. Orita’s love for music and high school experience led her to become part of the very popular “Alpine Trio” performing at many events. Up until her last days she could be heard, randomly, singing “Amazing Grace.” Orita would be seen, on any given day, driving the neighbor’s children around in her Volkswagen Beetle or piloting her Cessna plane with Dayla and Clay by her side. Once that relationship had ended, Orita moved to Gardnerville, NV where she continued to raise her children and work for the State.
Orita was a women of inquiry, passion, independence, adventure, humor, love and light. When she was presented with a new opportunity, she would jump in with both feet. Once she retired from the State of Nevada, she packed her belongings moving to Tucson, AZ following her dreams in becoming an independent business women. She opened up and ran her own business for years called “Something 4 U.” The store truly had something for everyone and was a reflection of the love and light she carried for all people. Eventually, wanting to be closer to her children, Nevada called her home.
Orita’s next chapters included working as a Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Advocate for the Family Support Council, adult group facilitator for the Douglas Center for Hope and Healing, member of the Unity Church of the Sierras, certified as a “Healing Touch” practitioner and a fierce advocate for those in need, of anything. She was also a passionate advocate for the welfare of animals. She continued to enjoy the southwest for many years spending her summers camping in Quartzite with her partner and continuing to make lifelong friends. Everywhere Orita went she made friends along the way. Orita’s passion for life was contagious. She made you want to be a better person and brought out the best of others. She was quick to laugh and you could always expect a tight hug and kind word and will be missed beyond words.
Orita is survived by her daughter Dayla Keebaugh Marsh (Jeff Marsh), son Clayton “Clay” Keebaugh, partner Jacqueline “Jackie” Allard, nieces, nephews, grandchildren and dear friends. Proceeding her in death are her parents, Randall and Lillian Hogue, Chuck Keebaugh and grandson Caylin Keebaugh.
Orita once mentioned to Dayla, “When I die, place my ashes up on the bar at the French and have a shot for me.” So that is exactly what will happen. Please come and honor a truly amazing woman who touched endless lives and created a lifetime of memories for many with the family at the informal celebration of life held at “The French Bar” on October 21st, 2023 at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the “Pine Nut Wild
Horse Advocates” wildhorseadvocates.org and/or the “Douglas Animal Welfare Group” dawgrescue.com