Rita Lou Munsey Doss

Rita Munsey Doss, wife, mother, and former Miss Tennessee, born January 12, 1944, peacefully went to be with the Lord on October 15, 2015 while surrounded by her family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Whitt E. Munsey and Zolian Ellen Munsey; and brother, Lynn W. Munsey. She is survived by her husband of 35 years, Dr. Leslie W. Doss; daughter, Rebecca Ellen Greene; step-daughter, Randle E. Doss; step-son, Brendon L. Doss; step-grandchildren; David Doss and Zoe Kavanaugh; nephew, Kelly L. Munsey, and countless friends and family members. A special thanks to Ashlee for being with Rita during the last few days to help, she is part of the family and loved deeply. Rita began performing at an early age singing and playing her accordion. She made several appearances on a local Knoxville television show in the late 1950's and early 1960's. Rita attended Claiborne County High School where she was very active in various school organizations and also was an excellent basketball player. She graduated in 1962.After graduating from high school, Rita attended the University of Tennessee. One of her proudest moments at UT was when she was elected Miss Scabbard and Blade by the Army ROTC. Rita also won the Miss Dixie beauty contest during these years. She entered the Miss Knoxville beauty contest which she also won. This propelled her to the Miss Tennessee beauty contest and then on to the Miss America beauty contest in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Rita performed on the Cas Walker Show in the 1960's, as well as on stage with various entertainers including the Statler Brothers and Ray Price. But, the three greatest accomplishments in her life, was being a great mother, having a wonderful daughter, and marrying a wonderful man, who treated her like a queen. Family and friends will gather for visitation at Woodlawn Roesch-Patton Funeral Home on Monday, October 19, 2015 from eleven o’clock to one o’clock, with funeral service to follow at one o’clock, also at the funeral home. A private interment will take place at Woodlawn Memorial Park.