Rita was born on May 17, 1934, in Dungarvan, County Waterford, Ireland, to the late Patrick and Hannah Moran.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Amos Link and her second husband, John Franklin Hayslett; brothers, Tommy, William, Michael, Patrick and James Moran; sisters, Bridget Dwyer, Mairead Byrne, Mary Bodie, Hannah Mackin, Teresa Coyle and Kitty Drummey, all of Ireland and England.

Rita is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Susan and Wayne Ayers of Buchanan; sister, Esther McCarthy of London, England; numerous nieces and nephews both here and abroad.

Rita was employed by Kenrose/ Glad Rags in Buchanan for many years. She was previously a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Lexington, and a present member of the Church of the Transfiguration, Fincastle.

She became a United States citizen on Nov. 13, 1963, something she was extremely proud of. Rita enjoyed traveling back home to Ireland and to England to visit her family. A journey she gladly made last summer for one last time.

A funeral mass celebrating Rita’s life was held Thursday, June 27, at the Church of Transfiguration in Fincastle. Interment was held later that day in High Bridge Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Father Paul Lagco officiated.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Church of Transfiguration Capital Improvement Plan, 7624 Roanoke Road, Fincastle, VA 24090.

The family would like to thank Dr. Carolyn Clark and Dr. Molly Rutherford for the excellent loving care they provided Rita over the years. Also, a very heartfelt thank you to Good Samaritan Hospice Care for the excellent care provided to Rita and the family.

Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfuneralhome. com or (540) 254-3000.

NG