Rita Semple

Born on September 11th, Rita was the first child of James and Edna Clark in San Francisco, California. Her mother was a modern woman teaching her the importance of social graces along with confidence and independent thinking. With beautiful dark curly hair and bow lips, Rita never went to bed without her father holding her hand until she was asleep. These life lessons of love and learning Rita would bring to her own family.

Edna insisted on a good Catholic education and Rita attended St. Paul’s School from kindergarten through 12th grade. She says she suffered greatly from the heavy woolen stockings and skirt and the starched midi blouses. But throughout this burden she made many lifelong friends. However, her best friendship occurred on January 15th while Rita was in Fourth Grade…her sister, Patricia, was born. The two of them would go on to epitomize the meaning of friendship and family, which is the core of what we are celebrating today.

Upon graduation Rita attended S. F. State. Then Rita embarked upon her life as a “career girl” and traveler. Rita worked several jobs to support her travels. She eventually became a respected booking agent for Republic Movie Studios. Her work at Republic required meeting many movie stars including John Wayne. Saving every nickel (she could account for every stick of gum she bought) Rita enjoyed traveling. Her adventures took her to many exotic locations including Cuba.

At age 26 she met handsome Stewart Semple. She was engaged on Valentines Day and married the following September. Being a cute Catholic couple they reproduced quickly. Their family grew to three children in three years culminating with the birth of a gorgeous redheaded daughter (guess who is writing this bio). Ultimately, Rita would have six children who were ethical (“Would you behave like that for your teacher?!”), hard workers (“Work is love in action”) and good dressers (“You’re wearing that?! What if you were in a car accident.”).

As her children grew older, Rita returned to work. Employed by the Public Information Office in Orange County, she was not content with providing information. She designed the tour program for Orange County. Eventually she started the Old Courthouse tours. These tours and court reenactments are now a tourist attraction and part of many class curriculums in Orange County. When Rita left her job as a county employee she continued to be involved with the Old Courthouse Society where her valuable work has been recognized.