Alma Aretha Asbel

Rita was born on October 1, 1955, to Alvin Branch and Alma Barnes. She grew up alongside her five siblings: Sonny Branch (preceded in death), Andy Branch (Michele), Jenny Sanders (James), Johnna Branch, and Ernie Branch (Debra).

She was married to the love of her life, Clifford “Bill” Asbel, for 27 years. Together they shared a life built on love, dedication, and family.

Rita was a proud and devoted mother to her six children: Kathleen Newton (Leebo), Alvin Squires, Charlie Caldwell (Alan) Robert Asbel, Sharon Asbel, and Clifford Asbel. She was a loving grandmother to seven grandchildren: Leah Newton (Chris), Amber Newton, Xavier Squires, Ezra Squires, Jacoby Squires, Chris Caldwell (Caden), and Johnny Caldwell (Allana). She was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: Phoenix Sanders, Riley Caldwell, and Emory Caldwell.

Rita enjoyed traveling, fishing, spending time at the beach, gardening, and attending card class with her best friend, Barbara. These simple joys brought her great happiness and allowed her to spend time doing what she loved most, being with people she cared about.

Before retiring in 2020, Rita was a devoted employee of Dale Earnhardt Chevrolet for 27 years. She took pride in her work and was well respected by colleagues and customers alike.

Though small in stature, Rita was truly a force to be reckoned with. She was strong, determined, and deeply respected by all who knew her. Her presence, love, and strength will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alvin Branch and Alma Barnes, and her brother, Sonny Branch.