Rita Mae Smith, nee Dana, 93 passed away peacefully at 10:35 am on July 6, 2025 with her daughter, son and daughter-in-law by her side.
She was born on October 21, 1931 in Mitchell, IL to Gertrude Bequette Dana and Charles Edward Dana Sr. She married Charles Newton (Newt) Smith, Jr. on December 29, 1949 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Church in Bethalto, IL. He passed away in December 1995.
Preceding her in death was her grandson, Steven Ray Whisenand whom she adored, her parents and in laws Comella and Charles N. Smith Sr., 3 brothers and their spouses: Charles Edward (Boss) Dana Jr., Stanley Aloysius (Allie) and Ruth Ann Dana, Joseph (Joe) and Marilyn Dana, 4 sisters and their spouses: Margaret and Delmar Oldenettel, Gertrude (Trudy) and Gene King, Elizabeth (Betty) and George Briskovich and Barbara (Bobbie) and John Katich, 3 brothers in law: George F. Smith, Spencer Q. Smith and Birdie Stanfield, Richard C. Smith and Sylvia, sister in law, Comella (Cassie) Reynolds, 1 niece, 2 nephews, 2 great nieces and 1 great nephew.
She is survived by her daughter Paulette' Je'An Smith of Bunker Hill, IL, her son and his wife, Steven (Smitty) and Marcia Smith of Littleton, CO, one sister and brother in law, Helen and Steve Zink of Springfield, IL, 37 nieces and nephews, 31 great nieces and nephews and 33 great great nieces and nephews.
First and foremost she loved family and family gatherings, golf, the cardinals, dancing, wine dinners, and high tea. She was known for her fried chicken and her generosity. She always said "there is always room for one more at the table." She sent care packages to her kids friends through the years and always made sure everyone had a Christmas. She will be greatly missed.
Private family services will be held. Anyone wishing to send an online condolence may do so at www.kravanyafuneral.com. Kravanya Funeral Home, Bunker Hill, IL is in charge of the arrangements.
