"The Lord extended His Hand & opened the Pearly Gates of Heaven to my dear beautiful friend, Rita Mesthos this morning welcoming her home. Rita won her Victory to Jesus valiantly as she courageously fought to combat her way to live here with her family and friends just a wee bit longer. Rita surely wished to do so as she loved her family so much. Her Husband, Steve, who cared for her 24/7 stayed by her side faithfully caring for her every moment of the day. Greg & Doug were home with Steve by Rita's side when she died this morning holding her hands. Tom & I traveled to see Rita last week after receiving word from Steve that Rita's response seemed to be changing; and at that point I knew I needed to be with my friend. Before leaving we prayed with Rita & family & I knew God was there surrounding them with His love. Rita & I met over the phone as she inquired about my RSD & Chronic Pain Support Groups in NJ. From this juncture we formed a life-long-lasting bond filled with a love chemistry that has kept us together like super glue. This continued after we moved out-of-state & Steve & Rita then traveled here to visit us a few years back even getting caught in an ice storm after leaving us heading toward Florida! That was one of her last long trips traveling in a car. We toured homes together, shopped, had dinners & lunches together even as a foursome, fund raised, & she was wonderful when we held our Afternoon of Elegance Teas for RSD/CRPS! Rita was quite the lady! Rita was organized, she could decorate, she was intelligent & we could talk shop - all the medical jargon, we let it rip! We laughed till we were blue in the face! I just loved chatting with Rita - and it seemed like we could chat forever - especially when we called on the phone - we talked forever! I just loved hearing her speak! I still have her last message on voicemail which I'll treasure for a lifetime! She was so happy & that's the way I shall remember her. Rita was a happy, loving person, a caring woman who loved life, who loved her husband, her two sons, & her friends & loved the Lord. She just wished she could kick what was wrong with her. Now she is at peace and we can celebrate her life & I am so very happy that I was part of this woman's life journey, a friend of Rita Mesthos whom I shall treasure forever. I love you Rita and I look forward to seeing you again in heaven so we can continue to party hearty girlfriend! Our thoughts & prayers reach out to Steve, Greg, & Doug today & always with all our love, Suzy & Tom Holcomb & Family"