Judy Harvey and Rita were the first folks I met - almost - when I moved to Chester in the early 80s. Rita was the dearest friend and I've tried to keep up with her even after she retired. She has been on my Christmas card list for years, and I just had to make a note by her name. She is up there looking out for her family and friends who are left here, but I'm sure of one thing - she has that beautiful smile on her face and has them laughing! What a blessing it was for me to know her.

I was so sad to hear of Rita's passing. Though I haven't seen her or Phil in a number of years we all think of them often and the good times we had. We lived beside her at Shady Hill Trailer Park when she and Phil were first married and the first of you two babies was born. We had some good times then and I (Rose) went to Bluefield with them once in the early 70's and boy what a time we had. Phil told me of driving the ambulance around those mountain roads and we went to this little drive-in that they used to spend a lot of time at when dating. We always had such fun together. My mother, Thelma Atkins, and friend, Charlotte Price, played country music in Richmond. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you for your mother was such a wonderful, jolly person who always made us laugh. What a joy is was to have her a small part of our lives. May you forever cherish her memory as we do. I work for J. T. Morriss funeral homes in the Purviance Chapel in Wakefield. God Bless.

Jeff and Erin, I am so sorry to hear about your mother. Just remember to love and care for your children like she loved the two of you.

I remember Rita during my teenage years while dateing Billy. She was always there to chat with and give "motherly" advise to all of us. She was the kind of person who always had her door open for anyone in need. I know she will be deeply missed. Jeff and Erin you are both in my prayers and I hope god helps you through this sad time. Stay strong Jeff and do your mama proud.

Your friend,
Sarah

I am so very sorry for your loss. I used to work with your mom.

Love, Margaret Faison

Erin. Jeff and Family Members, I am so saddened by Rita's death. I feel extremely honored and blessed to have been friends with your family and am so sorry we haven't kept in touch over the past few years. Even though, Ann and Joe have kept us updated on your family. I will always remember your family and have fond memories of all of you. May God keep you in his care and we have the hope of all being together again, if not in this world, but in a better place. God Bless each of you. Love In Christ,

Arleta

I will certainly miss Rita and our special talks. What a wonderful person she was. Jeff and Erin, I am so sorry for your loss and if you need anything, just call me..love you Rita

I feel very honored to have had someone as wonderful in my life as Ms. Rita. My heart goes out to those closest to her, and will pray that the Lord will be with both Jeff and Erin. I will most certainately miss you Ms. Rita.

Meridith

My friend and neighbor for over 30 years. Words cannot express the loss I feel. I will miss our daily talks. I know in my heart that you are in a better place,your pain and suffering now over. I will celebrate your life and morn your passing knowing we will see each other again. My God Bless and keep you till then.

Rita was a long and dear friend to our family. The little amount of time we spent together she touched our hearts and she will be sadly missed...Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family... We love you Rita

I am so sorry to hear about Rita's death and send my sincere sympathy to the family. Rita's kind words, keen sense of humor, sparkling personality, and beautiful smile made banking in Chester a pleasure - she will be missed.

Bonnie Moody