Rita G. Reffuse, 93, passed away peacefully in her home, where she resided with her grandson John Bruce, his wife Heather, and her great granddaughter Kayla Martin, on Thursday March 7th, 2019 after a brief battle with Leukemia. She was surrounded by family and her amazing caregivers from Solaris Hospice. Rita was born January 13th, 1926 in Hiawassee, GA to the late Edgar Hunter and Mattie Davenport. She was preceded in death by her husband Paul Reffuse, her brother James T. Nelson, and her sister Betty Jean Hawk.
She was born and raised in Hiawassee, GA. She attended Cosmetology School and was a hairdresser for many decades, as well as being an Instructor. Later in life, she worked for Fieldstone Inn as the Office Manager until her retirement. She was a member of Berea Baptist Church in Dahlonega, GA for many years before moving to Colorado in 2014. Rita was a devout Baptist who read her bible and studied devotionals daily. Even after moving away, her Church family in Georgia continued to support her from afar. She was also an avid gardener and lover of birds and flowers. Every Spring she had a beautiful array of flowers in her yard.
She is also survived by her daughter, Sandra Lee Bruce of Colorado. Her son, Walter Smith of Gastonia, NC. Her grandson Nathan Smith and his wife Sheryl of Clover, SC. Her niece Valerie (Val) Craig and her husband John (Pep) of Stone Creek, OH. Her niece, Rhonda Mitchell of Spiro, OK. Rita also leaves behind a nephew, numerous great nieces, several great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.
Rita was known for donating to various charities that were near and dear to her heart. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice if you feel so inclined.
