Although there is no actual proof that Rita Ranch was named after Rita Hayworth, it probably was.
In 1951 Howard Hughes bought 20,000 acres in Tucson to build Hughes Missile Systems. Howard Hughes set up a ranch home on these acres and accordingly named it Rita Ranch after Rita Hayworth.
Another story about the name’s origin is that it was named by Roy P. Drachman, a Realtor, who named it after a family friend.
Sources:
“A school bus tour of Vail District, opens a new window.” Arizona Daily Star. July 29, 2003. Page A2.
“What’s with that, opens a new window?” Arizona Daily Star. August 13, 2004. Page F44.
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