Derheta Lee (Oaks) Reams

DeRheta Lee Reams, age 70 of Crawfordville, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 17, 2022 in Tallahassee surrounded by her family.  Her family and friends knew her as Rita, and as someone who leaves a legacy of faith, hope and love. 

Born on May 9, 1952 in Lakeland, Florida to the late Albert Theodore and Lola Mann Oaks, Rita soon moved to Tallahassee, where she would attend and graduate from Wakulla High School.  Her first marriage took her back to Lakeland and gave her five children, who she adored.  Later in life, she reconnected with her high school crush who became the love of her life.  Her career path took her in many directions, but she retired from Lowes as a cashier manager. 

Although Rita couldn’t attend church during the latter part of her life, her faith was strong, and many would lean on her for prayer.  She had a passion for music and loved to dance.  Her children knew her as mama and someone who loved them completely, yet when she would give them “that look,” well, they knew that meant to straighten up.  She always had photos of her grandchildren ready to share to anyone who would ask. 

Rita is survived by her husband: Johnny Ream of Crawfordville, her five children, Ezra Penn Raulerson IV, James (Dawn) Raulerson, Cassie Raulerson, Mattie Lee Raulerson and DeRheta Jan (Eligh) Padgett.  Her precious jewels were her grandchildren: LaShane Michael McDougald, Aaliyah Rose Raulerson, Katie Reanna Johnson, Lynnlee Kay Johnson, Angelyn Zelena Johnson, Dalton Johnson, Gage Johnson, Chase Warren, Alyssa Raulerson, Meadoe Lynn Hurley, Olivia Jan Raulerson Phillips, Abigail Nicole Carroll, David Kristopher Porter, Michael William Exavior Kinch, Tristan Raulerson, Alexzander Hand, and DeRheta Durflinger. She was also survived by siblings: Michael Oaks, John Oaks, Olivia Cunningham and Travis (Tina) Oaks.

A celebration of Rita’s life will be at 1:00 PM on November 5, 2022 at The World Wide Church of the Living God, 66 Harvey Pittman Street, Crawfordville, Florida, 32327.

Hawke M.T. Forbes and H.M. “Hank” Forbes, Jr. of Forbes Funeral Home are honored to assist the family with the arrangements. 409 West Macclenny Avenue, Macclenny, Florida 32063 “With Your Family In Mind”. (904) 259-4600. Please leave your condolences for the family in the online guestbook at www.forbesfuneralhome.net.

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