Obituaries

Rita Mae Brake (née Cahill), of Erlanger, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026, at the age of 98.

Born on May 18, 1928, in Covington, Kentucky, Rita was the beloved daughter of the late James and Georgia (née Hummel) Cahill. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 62 years, William John Brake; her brothers, Pete Cahill and Bill Cahill; her sisters, Sr. Betty Cahill, OSB; Dolly Eagen and Birdie Michels.

Rita leaves behind a loving family who will miss her deeply, including her children, David Brake (Cindy), Donald Brake, Terry Brake (Renee), Thomas Brake (Joan), and Raymond Brake (Jayna); 10 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her tremendous pride and joy.

Rita attended St. Henry High School, where she met the love of her life, Bill (died in 2014). They married in 1952 and lived in Covington before moving to their Erlanger home in 1958, where Rita lived until February 2026. Before starting her family, Rita worked as a secretary and later, after her children were grown, put her talents to work as a seamstress at a bridal boutique.

A faithful member of St. Henry Church, Rita lived a life centered on family, hospitality, and quiet devotion to those she loved. She had a gift for making people feel at home, whether through her countless Sunday brunches, lively family gatherings, or the many homemade treats that became her trademark—especially her famous cheese balls, mint juleps, desserts, and breads made from just about anything imaginable.

While raising her family, Rita hosted many large extended family picnics while never missing one of her son’s countless baseball games. There was nothing fancy—just a picnic basket filled with homemade fried chicken, macaroni salad, and dessert. These gatherings often centered around old fashioned family fun.

Rita became an avid golfer in the later years and enjoyed time on the course as much as she enjoyed time around the table with family and friends. She loved cooking, sewing, working puzzles, entertaining, and creating warm memories for everyone around her. Whatever the occasion Rita loved making prizes for the games, or outings where her wit and humor were always on display. Fiercely independent, graceful, and steady in spirit, Rita carried herself with a quiet strength, and sweetness that left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at St. Henry Church from 10:15 a.m. until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:45 a.m. Interment (immediate family) will be at Forest Lawn Cemetery. Reception for all in Wehage Hall following mass.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to St. Henry Church.

Rita’s family will remember her for the life she lived, her humor, warmth, dignity, and love she so generously shared with others.