Rita Ione Smith

Rita Ione Smith (née Gardiner), age 88, passed away peacefully at her residence on May 1, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on March 16, 1937, in Covington, KY, Rita lived a life of faith, compassion, and devotion to her family, her students, and her community.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Harold and Margaret Gardiner, and her cherished grandson, John Howard.

Rita is survived by her devoted husband of 64 years, Howard Smith, and their three children: Lisa (Duane) Hughes, Todd (Andrea) Smith, and Shannon (Patrick) Gerak. She was a proud grandmother to Griffin (Lauren), Brenton, Garrett, Brady, Madelynne, Mya, Morgan, and Bennett; a great-grandmother to two; and a loved friend to many.

Rita and Howard’s story began in English class at Dixie Heights High School and grew into a lifetime of partnership and love. A proud graduate who went on to dedicate her career to children, Rita served as an elementary school teacher in the Kenton County School System, beginning in Bromley and later at Crescent Springs Elementary until her retirement in 1993. She was a Christian woman who read the Bible cover-to-cover multiple times, and lived her faith through kindness, generosity, and joyful service.

She found joy in gardening, reading, and caring for her yard, but nothing delighted her more than children—whether her students, her own family, or the many she helped through her charitable giving. She had a sweet tooth and a sweet spirit to match, with Howard often playing the role of the “guard dog” of the desserts she loved.

Rita was honored with an award for her 29 years of giving to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital—an organization close to her heart.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Highland Cemetery Chapel in Ft. Mitchell, KY. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM at the chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. To donate, please visit www.stjude.org/donate  or mail to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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