Rilla Tacy Fields, a devoted member of the Community of Christ, served as a speech pathologist and priesthood leader in various communities.

Rilla Anne Tacy, born on February 22, 1947, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, was the eldest daughter of six children. She was baptized in March 1955 in the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, which later became known as the Community of Christ. Rilla remained a devoted servant of Jesus Christ throughout her life, dedicating her time and energy to various ministries and community service.

Rilla attended public schools in Michigan, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and Kentucky, following her father’s assignments as an appointee of the Community of Christ. She earned a bachelor of science degree from the University of Kentucky and a master of speech pathology from Auburn University. Her career as a speech pathologist spanned decades, during which she worked with children and adults with hearing impairments in Alabama, Georgia, the Grand Cayman Islands, Chinle, Arizona, and Pagosa Springs, Colorado.

On December 24, 1977, Rilla married Dr. Edward B. Fields in Lexington, Kentucky. Together, they created safe havens for underprivileged and broken-hearted individuals of all backgrounds. They also provided counsel and support to esteemed leaders in their professions, communities, and the Community of Christ. Rilla served as a priest in the Community of Christ, dedicating her ministry to the communities where she lived and to congregations where she served.

Their commitment to the church led them to Grand Cayman for a two-year volunteer mission. This experience prompted them to work with the Navajo Nation in speech pathology and clinical psychology. Ed served as pastor of the Pinon Mission. When they settled in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, Rilla and Ed continued their service as priesthood leaders, teachers, and counselors. They dedicated their time, ministry, and resources with generosity and a deep sense of spiritual calling.

Rilla worked in the Chinle Unified School District on the Navajo Reservation for over 25 years. Ed served as a clinical psychologist for the Chinle Indian Health Service Hospital in Arizona for 23 years. Throughout their lives, they remained active in the priesthood. Rilla continued her speech pathology practice through Community Connections in Pagosa Springs. She also served as secretary on the board of directors for The Tacy Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in the nation’s capital.

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