Rita Smith

Rita Able Smith, 75, of Ridgeland, SC, passed away on September 6, 2024, surrounded by her family, after a courageous 20 plus year battle with cancer. She was born on June 26, 1949, in Ridgeland SC, to the late Mr. and Mrs. Harvey “Strib” , and Helen Floyd Able.

Rita and her mother owned and operated Able’s Snack Shop on Main St. in downtown Ridgeland for many years. She was a loving sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Her love for her family was immense. Rita’s selflessness and compassion for others goes back to her early childhood and continued throughout her life. She nurtured her siblings, her son, and his family. She never hesitated to help others in need. She would help her family, friends and even strangers if she thought she could make their lives better. Rita loved Christmas.  Her selfless giving nature made it easy for her to enjoy shopping for the perfect gift in Savannah, Beaufort and many local yard sales. Rita loved her Lord and Savior and enjoyed serving him; by serving others through the many meals, she was able to prepare in the church kitchen. When she was able, she looked forward to trips to the mountains where she made many memories with her family.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Miles Smith, son, Shannon Smith (Amy), grandchildren: Chris Smith (Kennedy), Courtney Smith (Cody Bell), Cayleigh Smith, Corey Smith, great grandchild, Walker Bell, brother, Hal Able, sisters: Gail Jolly (Cullie), Cheryl Shofner (Tom), and host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A graveside service will be held at Grahamville Cemetery, Smiths Crossing and Sycamore Dr. Ridgeland SC, at 2:00 pm, on Wednesday, September 11, 2024.

Memorial donations may be made to the J.C. Lewis Cancer Center, 5356 Reynolds Street, Suite 400, Savannah, GA 31405, or at their website, sjchs.org, or to a local food bank of your choice.

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