Rita Carolyn Klutts

Our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Rita Carolyn Klutts, passed peacefully from this life, leaving behind a legacy of love, selflessness, and gentle strength.

Born to Seth "Rex" and Beatrice Robinson, Rita grew up roaming and playing outdoors, running around shoeless in the summers, making mud pies, and appreciating simple pleasures like the peaceful sounds of nature, the sunrise, or a cool glass of iced tea. She often spoke of the special bond she had with her granny, Cora, whose nurturing heart shaped the way Rita cared for others throughout her life.

Her childhood was spent moving between east and west Texas, though the family always returned to Terrell, a place that became an anchor in her story. It was there that she met her husband, Jerry. Together they built a home and a life in McLendon-Chisholm, where Rita lived for more than fifty years. Side by side, they raised three children-Sherri, Kathy, and Stephen-instilling in them the same spirit of kindness and compassion that she carried throughout her life.

Those who knew Rita will remember her authenticity, her tenderness, and her unwavering selflessness. She poured herself fully into her children and grandchildren, always putting them before herself. To her children, she was empathy and comfort; a fierce protector and defender that never wanted them to go without. Her grandchildren, Jay, Julia, Seth "Rex," named in honor of her father, Cy, Ava, and Jenna knew her as Mimi. There could be no doubt that each one held a special place in Mimi's heart reserved just for them. They enjoyed her home-cooking, her talents as a seamstress, and her sweet laugh when she got tickled.

Her love extended beyond her immediate family, embracing and caring for Gretchen Randall as a young child who became like a daughter to her and Gretchen's daughter, Cora-named in honor of Rita's beloved granny. If Rita indulged in anything for herself, it was the thrill she got from thrift shopping. She delighted in uncovering hidden treasures where others might have seen only what was cast aside.

She is survived by her children Sherri Klutts, Katherine Kennedy and husband Troy, and Stephen Klutts; grandchildren Jay Shallow, Julia Shallow, Seth "Rex" Kennedy, Cy Kennedy, Ava Kennedy, and Jenna Shallow; Gretchen Randall and daughter Cora; her siblings, Loy, and Pat; stepdaughter Tammie Richardson and family. She is reunited in peace with her husband Jerry, her dearest granny Cora, her father Seth "Rex," and her mother Beatrice."

Rita's life was one of love, devotion, and kindness. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, her friends, and all those fortunate enough to have been touched by her gentle spirit.