Rita Lynn Smithson

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Rita Lynn Smithson, a cherished mother, sister, aunt, and friend. Rita left us on New Year's Day, January 1, 2025, at the age of 68, after bravely battling multiple sclerosis. She was born on October 27, 1956, in Dallas, TX.
Rita was remembered for her vibrant sense of humor, her kindness, and warmth, her steadfast stubbornness, and her unwavering faith in God. She took on a role of helping her younger siblings and embodied a sense of responsibility, a nurturing and guiding figure in their lives.
During her early years, Rita spent eight years as a QA Inspector at E Systems, where she was responsible for ensuring product quality and compliance with industry standards. Rita's most recent role was a Customer Service Representative at CareMark Pharmaceuticals, where she dedicated five years of service. She ultimately stepped away from her position due to medical disabilities, specifically complications resulting from her Multiple Sclerosis.
Rita cultivated a deep sense of resilience while overcoming numerous challenges as a single mother of two. Most importantly, her greatest joy comes from being a mother to her cherished son and daughter, as well as being a beloved member to her family, including her nieces and nephews.
She is survived by her daughter Amy Lynn Fisher, son Gregory Lee Underwood, mother Ofelia Kilpatrick and husband James, brothers Robert Manriquez, Phillip Manriquez, and Christopher Manriquez, sisters Laura Heitmeyer and Alice Sell. She is preceded in death by her father Louis Gomez Manriquez, brother Louis Manriquez Jr., sister Marcella Cook, and nephew Alex Manriquez.
Funeral mass will be held 1:00 pm on Friday, January 24th, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 600 S Jupiter Rd, Richardson, TX 75081.
Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
"Mom, you may be gone from my sight, but you are never gone from my heart. Your love will always be cherished and your memory will forever guide me."