Rita Robinette Simmons Obituary (1940 - 2021)

MADISON - Rita Robinette Simmons passed away Wednesday, February 10, 2021, at Moses Cone Hospital, Greensboro, North Carolina. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. Rita was born in Hickory, North Carolina to the late Jake and Florene Robinette. She retired from Macfield/Unifi as an administrative assistant after 30 years of service. Rita was an avid reader. She loved the mountains and longed to live there someday in a little log cabin. She loved the beach, where she attended many SOS events. She loved music, dancing and playing Canasta. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her daughter Kelly Ward and son Chase Simmons. Survivors include her daughter Tracey Ward Lederer (Steve); son, Jason Simmons; sister, Kathy Robinette Lail and nieces, Lisa Rogers and Rita Millsaps; stepchildren; Rena Simmons Vaughn, Rosemary Simmons Pyrtle, Peggy Simmons Trujillo, Jim Simmons and Bill Simmons; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Rita will be remembered as a strong, selfless mother, daughter, sister and loyal friend. She will be incredibly missed by many. "To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die." In remembrance of Rita's life, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9956. Colonial Funeral Home in Madison is serving the family. Condolences may be offered at www.colonialfh.net