Rita Augenstein

Rita L. Augenstein, 77, was born on December 2, 1944, in Louisville, KY to Hubert Slusher and Ethel Kaestner. She graduated from Butler High School and went on to attend Sullivan University. In May of 1973 she began working at Louisville Memorial Gardens where she remained dedicated for the rest of her life. Her loyalty to her job and the people she worked with were important parts of her life, second only to her family.

Rita was the heart and soul of her family. Traditions and spending time with her family were cherished and many happy memories were created. Christmas was her favorite holiday followed by Thanksgiving dinner with her family. She loved attending birthday parties, weddings, and other family outings. During her life she enjoyed collecting angels, traveling with family or co-workers, and loved anything related to Elvis.

Rita always went above and beyond for anyone she met as many co-workers, business associates, and customers have attested to over the years. The community she lived in was important to her as well. She served on the Shively City Council and was a past president of the Kentucky Cemetery Association and president-elect of the Southern Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (SCCFA). She was a member of the Shively Area Business Association (SABA) and received a Pioneers of Shively Award and recognition from the SCCFA.

Volunteering for events such as SABA Santa, Making Strides for Breast Cancer fundraisers, or serving Thanksgiving breakfast for the homeless were important to her. She took every opportunity to recognize Veterans and local law enforcement whether it was helping to bring a veteran's memorial wall in town for an event or paying for their dinner.

On Wednesday, September 7, 2022, Rita passed away at Norton Women’s and Children’s Hospital. The staff at Norton’s cared for her like she was their own and the family is very appreciative of each of them.

Rita is survived by her four children, Sheri, Scott (Jamie), Chad (Tina), and Brian (Genna) and her grandchildren, Joe, Steven, Taylor, Dalton, Kaitalin, Ashton, Kyle, Tory, Carlina, Kody, Peyton, Jaylen, Cayleigh, Tristan, Kaylee, and Kensi. She also had eight great-grandchildren, Alena, Jayanna, Joe, Jr., Dawson, Grant, Grayson, Ivy, and Eli. She is also survived by her brother, Hubert “Bud” Clyde Slusher, Jr. as well as cousins and co-workers who she loved dearly. Her love and legacy will live on in each of them as her kindness and generosity can never be forgotten.

Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, September 10, 2022 at 1:00 pm at Louisville Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 4400 Dixie Highway. Visitation will be on Friday from 12:00 to 7:00 pm and on Saturday from 11:00 until service time at 1:00 pm.