Dr. Rita Emily Meadows

Born on May 10, 1945, in Beckley, WV, Rita lived a life marked by learning, dedication, and devotion. After graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley, she moved to Florida and attended Southeastern College where she received her Bachelor of Arts in Christian education. She also earned a Master of Science in elementary education specializing in reading from Florida State University, a Specialist in Education in reading/ language arts from the University of South Florida, a Doctorate of Philosophy in curriculum and instruction from the University of Florida, and she obtained her 2nd Doctorate in Education Leadership and Policy from Vanderbilt University.

Rita shared her knowledge and commitment to education with students and colleagues across many years. She started her teaching career as an elementary school teacher with the Polk County School Board, where she spent several years at various elementary schools. After acquiring this experience, she accepted a position as an education methods Professor at Southeastern College/University where she remained for many years before moving on to serve as a Professor in the Literature Department, at the University of South Florida. Rita retired from the University of South Florida in December of 2015.

Religion remained an important part of her life, and that devotion shaped the way she moved through the world. Rita was also known as a proud and independent woman, and those qualities remained a steady part of her life’s story. In this time of sorrow, there is comfort in entrusting her to God’s care and remembering a life lived with purpose.

Rita E Meadows was preceded in death by her father, Howard J Meadows, Sr.; her mother, Lillian Meadows; and her sister-in-law, Karen Meadows. She is remembered by her brothers, Howard J Meadows, Jr. of Simpsonville, SC, Robert Meadows (Regina), and Curtis Meadows (Donna) both of Beckley, WV, as well as by her many nephews, nieces, great-nephews and nieces, great-great-nephews and nieces, many cousins and others whose lives were touched by her work and presence.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at Blue Ridge Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 5251 Robert C. Byrd Dr, Beckley, WV 25801, with the funeral to follow at 2:00 p.m.

As those who knew Dr. Rita E Meadows commend her to eternal peace, may they find strength in cherished memories and in the assurance of God’s abiding presence.