The family of an elderly woman who was found deceased in her rural residence has honored her memory as a compassionate mother, while a man taken into custody on suspicion of her homicide remains in a critical condition.
Rita Rowley, aged 84, was located at a residence on Woodlands Grove in Prees Higher Heath, Whitchurch, Shropshire, on January 27. Another 80-year-old male was also discovered at the same property with severe injuries.
He was apprehended on suspicion of murder and has since been hospitalized in critical condition. West Mercia Police confirmed that no other individuals are being sought in connection with the incident. Rita’s children have shared heartfelt words about their mother, describing her as a devoted charity volunteer, animal enthusiast, and enthusiastic gardener. Despite her Alzheimer’s condition, they emphasized her continued brightness and sociability.
In an official statement released through the police, her children expressed, “We wish to honor our beloved mother Rita, who alongside our late father Colin, raised us to be compassionate and caring individuals.”
“Throughout her life, she sought independence and self-reliance. She met and married our father in Malta while he was serving in the RAF. Courageously, she relocated to a foreign land, leaving her family behind in Malta. She worked diligently as a seamstress and had a deep passion for fashion; always maintaining a stylish appearance.”
“Our parents shared a love for travel and meeting new people. Even after our father’s passing, our mother continued to travel solo or with companions, both domestically and internationally, particularly to her cherished Malta. She adored music and dancing, with a special fondness for Elvis Presley and Johnny Mattis. Her home was always filled with music, encompassing both classic and contemporary genres.”
“Our mother had a deep affection for gardens and flowers. Upon moving to Higher Heath, she cultivated her vegetable patch and established a beautiful flower garden.”
“She possessed a remarkable green thumb, excelling in propagating plants from cuttings and seeds, often sharing her expertise with others.”
“She took immense pleasure in visiting other gardens for inspiration and admiration. Her love for animals was profound; she regularly fed stray cats, who eagerly awaited her care.”
“She also cherished garden birds, evident by the numerous bird feeders in her yard. Her favorite Robin would visit daily, perching by the back door in anticipation of a meal.”
“Her unwavering faith in Catholicism, coupled with her amiable nature, instilled a strong sense of community in her. She was eager to assist others and dedicated over two decades of volunteer service at the Age UK daycare center in Whitchurch.”
“In addition to volunteering, she generously offered transportation to appointments, assisted with shopping, and aided in household tasks.”
“Throughout her life, she displayed unwavering dedication, always supporting and encouraging us to excel. We will deeply miss her, despite the challenges posed by Alzheimer’s affecting her confidence and social interactions. We kindly request privacy during this period.”
Detective Inspector Joanne Delahay from West Mercia Police previously stated, “Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the deceased woman.”
“We understand the community may be alarmed by such an incident, but we can reassure that we consider this to be an isolated occurrence with no broader threat to public safety.”