Lynda Smith

Lynda Louise Smith (maiden-Ritter)
January 18, 1947 – April 17, 2026

Lynda Louise Smith, a devoted servant of Christ, compassionate healer, and beloved member of her community, was called home to the loving arms of her Savior on April 17, 2026. She passed away peacefully at the Hospice House in Sun City Center, Florida, surrounded by the grace of the Lord she served so faithfully throughout her seventy-nine years.

Born on January 18, 1947, in Mankato, Minnesota, Lynda was the cherished daughter of Robert and Priscilla Ritter. From her earliest days in the heart of the Midwest, she embodied values of hard work, kindness, and an unwavering faith that became the foundation of her life’s purpose. Guided by the "Great Commandment"—to love God and love her neighbor—Lynda dedicated her life to service through both her professional calling and spiritual devotion.

As a Nurse, Lynda’s career was a reflection of her nurturing spirit and steadfast faith. To her, nursing was far more than a profession; it was a ministry. She approached each person with compassion and saw every act of care as an opportunity to reflect Christ’s love. Her colleagues and patients alike remember her for her immense patience, clinical excellence, and comforting presence during life’s most vulnerable moments.

After moving to Florida, Lynda found her spiritual home at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Brandon. There, she embraced her passion for guiding the next generation in faith. She took great joy in teaching Children’s Ministry classes, bringing Bible stories to life for young minds while instilling in them the enduring love of Jesus. Her dedication extended to serving as a teacher in the church’s before-school program, where she greeted children each morning with warmth and encouragement. For many families in Brandon, Lynda was a beacon of kindness and faith who made even the earliest hours feel bright.

While Lynda’s service to her community was vast and impactful, her greatest joy was found within her family. A devoted mother and grandmother, she led by example and poured her wisdom and love into those closest to her. Her grandchildren were among her greatest treasures on earth, and she cherished every moment spent nurturing their faith and celebrating their lives.

Lynda was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Robert and Priscilla Ritter, as well as her dear brother, Steve Ritter. Her family takes comfort in the promise of eternal life through Christ and the knowledge that she has been joyfully reunited with them in Heaven.

She is lovingly remembered by her devoted son, Kevin (wife Martha) Smith; her four cherished grandchildren—Branden, Caleb, Isabel, and Sofia—who were the lights of her life; and her brothers Dan (Dianne) Ritter and Jim (Judy) Ritter. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were blessed to know her.

Lynda Louise Smith lived a life that radiated the light of the Gospel. She was a woman of prayer, a servant of the Church, and a friend to all who crossed her path. Though those who knew her mourn deeply for their loss on earth, they rejoice in knowing she has heard these most beautiful words: "Well done, thou good and faithful servant... enter thou into the joy of thy lord" (Matthew 25:21).

A celebration of Lynda’s life will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Brandon, Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Immanuel Lutheran Children’s Ministry to continue the work that Lynda held so dear.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

The Memorial Service will be held on April 23, 2026, from 03:00 PM to 05:00 PM at Immanuel Lutheran Church John Moore Road