Nita Lou Rausch

Nita Lou Rausch, age 83, passed away on February 10, 2026, in Dallas, surrounded by the love of her family and friends. A true daughter of Texas, she was born in Dallas to Big Cecil and Christine Smith and was raised in a home grounded in faith, service, and devotion to family, church, and country.

Nita married Leon, the love of her life, and faithfully supported him and his family throughout his service in the United States Air Force. Their life together took them from Alabama to California, to Germany, to South Carolina, before they eventually made their home in Dallas. Throughout these moves, Nita shared her gift of music, serving as an organist and choir director for 60 years in Lutheran congregations both in the United States and abroad.

A lifelong learner, Nita earned her Bachelor of Arts from Baylor University and her Master of Arts from the University of South Carolina. She devoted more than 30 years to serving as a public school librarian, retiring from the Richardson ISD. She was a proud member of Beta Phi Mu, the National Honorary Library Society, as well as a lifetime member of the PTA. In retirement, she cultivated her passion for gardening as a Dallas County Master Gardener, tending alongside her dear friends for 15 years.

Among the greatest gifts she imparted to her children were her steadfast faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, a deep appreciation for education, a love of music, and a lifelong love of reading.

Nita is survived by her husband, Leon; her children Brian, Scott, and Celeste; her daughters‑in‑law Rosie and Erin; and her grandchildren Eric and Katherine.

In lieu of flowers, Nita requested that donations be made to:

• Faith Lutheran Church and School – 1701 E. Park Blvd., Plano, TX, (972) 423‑7448

• Lutheran Heritage Foundation – 51474 Romeo Plank Rd., Macomb, MI 48042

• Luther College – 2300 Hickory St., Casper, WY 82604

A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for the Grace of God will be held on February 25, 2026, at Faith Lutheran Church, 1701 East Park Boulevard, Plano, TX 75074. Visitation with the family will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m.

A private family graveside service will take place at DFW National Cemetery.

Nita lived her life confident in the promise that Jesus, her Lord and Savior, had prepared a place for her in heaven.