Linda Rita Mae Steadman Smith

Linda Rita Mae Steadman Smith (July 7, 1947–-March 30, 2026) Rita was born in Moore, SC, the fourth child and only daughter of Lucy and Pete Steadman. She married Ray Smith in 1966, and together they had three children: Steve, Autumn, and Susie. She lived a life of faith, beginning at Moore Church of Christ, and had been a member at Duncan church of Christ for 42 years. She passed from this life after a long illness, holding the hands of her daughters and surrounded by love. Family and faith brought Rita the greatest joys in life. Her legacy of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who love the Lord was her greatest treasure and a beautiful testament to who God allowed her to be. She said often, "I don't know how anyone does it without faith." One of her favorite hymns, Because He Lives, was an anthem she sang bravely, beautifully, and a bit out of tune. She knew that because He lives, she could face tomorrow and her fear is gone; and because she knew He holds the future, life is worth the living… just because He lives. Despite many tragedies, Rita moved through life with pure grit, perseverance, and hope. She demonstrated Christlike love and servanthood through her card ministry, conversations (even those unfiltered thoughts!), and giving. She never met a stranger. Some connected over a game of Scrabble, Canasta, or Rook while they talked…but not so much that it distracted from the game! Others bonded every time they watched the Atlanta Braves play baseball, knowing she was also cheering and pumping her fist at every home run. Rita is preceded in death by her husband, Ray Smith; son, Steven Smith; parents, Pete and Lucy Steadman; and brothers, Dan and Cecil Steadman. She leaves behind for a moment daughters, Autumn Richardson (Adam) and Susie Kimbrell; grandchildren, Kait Richardson, Logan Richardson (Ashley), Macey Richardson, Landon Kimbrell, Alex Kimbrell, and Ansley Baldomar (Miguel); great-grandchildren, Parker and Olive Richardson, and several well-loved foster children; and two brothers, Earl and Tommy Steadman. Rita and her family are eternally grateful for the love, hospitality, and friendship extended by Keith and Melita McCaskill for the last 13 years. They are also grateful to those friends, loved ones, and professionals who cared for her during her illness. The family will have a visitation at Duncan Church of Christ on April 16th, from 4:30 pm until 6:00 pm, with the memorial service immediately following at 6:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials in her honor can be sent to Palmetto Bible Camp for Junior Week or P.A.L.s. Checks can be sent to PBC, 140 Fall Creek Rd., Marietta, SC 29661. Specify Rita Smith memorial for Junior Week (or PALs) on the memo line.

Linda Rita Mae Steadman Smith

July 7, 1947 - March 30, 2026