Rita passed away peacefully Sat June 23rd surrounded by her family. Services will be officiated by Dr Ryan Morris. Collier Butler Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Rita belonged to First Baptist Church Hokes Bluff for several years, was a member of Joy Sunday School Class and was part owner of Express Lube & Oil in East Gadsden. She was a talented seamstress, crafter, cook and loved spending time with her family.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Earl Carnes, her parents K.M. “Bo” and Jessie Smith, parents-in-law H.A. and Mary Carnes, grandchildren, Destiny & Christopher NeSmith, sister, Myra Smith Carnes, all of Hokes Bluff.
She leaves behind to cherish her memories, her son and his family, Jeff & Lynn Blevins Carnes of Hokes Bluff. Seth Carnes, Hokes Bluff, Jonathan & Stacy Carnes Smith, Wetumpka. Her daughter and her family, Lisa & Jerry Baker, Hokes Bluff. Keith & Brittany NeSmith Applegate, Christopher & Amber Baker Callender. Jerry & Davin Parske Watts, Kaylor & Kortney Gembe Parske, all of Hokes Bluff. Her great-grandchildren, Maliyah & Lucas Applegate, Haylen Stanley (Watts), Maggie & Braxton Watts, Alex & Alissa Gembe. Brother & sister-in-law Wayne “Bud” & Ann Smith Hokes Bluff. Chosen sisters, Pam Campbell, Priscilla Jones, & Janet Campbell. Chosen family Anthony, Staci, Gavin & Maggie Bray. A host of other relatives, special cousins and friends.
Pallbearers will be Seth Carnes, Jonathan Smith, Kaylor Parske, Jerry Watts, Christopher Callender, and Mark Brittain.
Honorary Pallbearers are Jerry Baker, Keith Applegate, Randy Parske, Mike Reaves, Jason Greene.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to National Kidney Foundation @ kidneyfund.org
Special thanks to Dr Mahammad Kaleem & Dr Jarrod Warren for their concern and care, SICU nurses Lauren, Stephanie, Nicole B, Megan. MICU nurses Heather, Caitlin, Megan. 8th floor staff Sharon & Savannah. The incredible compassion and kindness you showed to our family and, especially our mother will never be forgotten, and Alacare hospice. We truly appreciate our pastors Dr Ryan Morris & Bro. Chris Walker for their steadfast faith and prayers.
