Coretta Garraghty Sowder, 95, of Blue Ridge, went to be with her Heavenly Father on Tuesday, August 17, 2021.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James Alvah Sowder, Jr.; her son, James Gary Sowder; her parents, Ernest and Olivia Garraghty; five brothers, Ashley, Reginald, Ernie, Calvin and Giles Garraghty.
She is survived by her daughter, Donna Sowder de Simone (Mick); her grandsons, Matthew James de Simone and Henry Patrick de Simone (Kaitlyn); two sisters, Marianne Wydner (John) and Myrianne Padgett (Roy); sister-in-law, Lillian “Betty” Garraghty; her loving caregiver, Gina Pickard; and many nieces and nephews.
Coretta “Rita” was a loving wife, daughter, sister, mother, grandmother and friend. She was an active member of Calvary Baptist Church and served as a preschool Sunday School Teacher for over 50 years. She was always known for her sweet, kind ways.
A memorial service will be held at Colonial Avenue Baptist Church on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 10:00 AM with Dr. Steven W. Pollard officiating. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Calvary Baptist Church, P. O. Box 12226, Roanoke, VA 24023.
