Rhetta is a 40 year resident of the Lincoln-Lemington area in Pittsburgh's 12th Ward, where she also serves as a committee woman.  Her enthusiasm for politics and community service has been apparent throughout her life and career.

Rhetta graduated from Westinghouse High School, and then attended CCAC where she received her education in Business Administration.  She served as an Administrative Assistant to the late Governor Robert Casey until 1996.  She was then employed by former Councilwoman Valarie McDonald Roberts from 1996 to 2002.

In addition to her Government service, Rhetta is a member of the Baptist Temple Church, Lincoln Lemington Health Center, Lincoln Lemington Senior Adult Advisory Board, East End AARP, and a past President of the Lincoln-Lemington CDC.  She has been honored by the Lincoln Lemington Health Center, the Prison Ministry, and the Westinghouse High School for her outstanding community service.

Married for 50 years to Clarence Irvin, a mother, and a grandmother, Rhetta shares her passion for politics and community with everyone around her.