Rita Mae Smith, age 76, of Erwin, Tennessee, passed away peacefully with both granddaughters by her side on the early morning of Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at the Center on Aging and Health in Erwin, Tennessee. She was born in the close-knit community of Coffee Ridge, Erwin, Tennessee, the cherished daughter of the late William Ellis Higgins and Bonnie Edwards Higgins. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved and adored son, Billy Lee Smith; her devoted and kindhearted brother’s, Tony Higgins, Kenneth Higgins, Gene Higgins, Larry Higgins, and Junior Higgins; and her sweet and gentle sister, Pearl Tipton.
Rita was a devoted homemaker whose life revolved around her faith, her family, and her endless acts of kindness. A woman of unwavering Christian values, she radiated grace and compassion to all who knew her. Rita had a remarkable gift for giving and was a source of comfort and joy to those around her. Whether it was through a home-cooked meal, a heartfelt prayer, or a gentle word of encouragement, she touched countless lives with her generosity and love.
An avid Chicago Cubs fan, Rita found joy in cheering on her favorite team and loved spending time watching the Young and the Restless, reading her Bible, and sharing stories of faith and family history. Her infectious laugh, overflowing wisdom, and everlasting kindness were a blessing to all who had the opportunity to know her.
Rita is survived by her beloved granddaughter and “bestie,” Cloee-Anna Merritt, who she dearly loved and cherished. She also leaves behind another granddaughter, Chasity Bennett and husband Dennis, who she loved very much and cared deeply for; her great-granddaughters, Ryliee and Jessica Bennett, whom she adored beyond measure; her beloved son, David Smith; her caring brother, Jack Higgins, and his wife, Laura; her cherished grandson, Hobie Merritt; her lifelong friend and sister-in-law, Linda Higgins, along with her daughters and beloved nieces, Christy, Pamela, and Trisha; and Cloee-Anna’s fiancé, Zackary Courtney, who Rita affectionately referred to as her “boyfriend,” bringing laughter and warmth to family gatherings with their inside joke.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, starting at 11:00 AM, followed by a chapel service at 12:00 PM at Monte Vista Funeral Home with Pastor Joey Murdock officiating. The graveside service and burial will begin at 2:00 PM at Evergreen Cemetery in Erwin, Tennessee. Pallbearers will be David Smith, Chad Smith, Hobie Merritt, Zackary Courtney, Dennis Bennett, and Joey Murdock.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Center on Aging and Health in Erwin, Tennessee, specifically Tara, Laurel, Sharon, Becky, and Josh for the compassionate care and support shown to Rita during her time of need.
Arrangements especially for Mrs. Rita Mae Smith and her family have been made through Monte Vista Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 1900 E. Oakland Avenue, Johnson City, TN; 423-282-2631.
