RITA SMITH
Born: November 15th 1940
“Life is an adventure, embrace the journey.” -Rita
MY STORY
My Beginnings
I came into this world on a crisp November 15th, 1940, in the bustling city of Dallas, Texas. My parents, John and Margaret Smith, were hardworking folks who taught me the values of determination and kindness from a very young age. I was their third child, and my childhood was filled with simple joys, from playing in the Texas sunshine with my siblings to family gatherings around our dinner table. The warm Texan hospitality that surrounded me during those early years would shape my character for the rest of my life.
My School Days
As I grew older, my love for learning became evident. I attended the local public schools, and it didn’t take long for my teachers to notice my passion for learning. I was that girl who always had her hand up in class, eager to answer questions and share what I knew. The smell of freshly sharpened pencils and the excitement of learning something new are etched vividly in my memory from those days.
College Bound
In 1958, I graduated from high school with honors and set my sights on college. My parents, despite their modest means, were determined to support my dreams. I enrolled at the University of Texas at Austin, where I pursued a degree in education. College life broadened my horizons, and I became an active participant in campus activities, making friendships that would last a lifetime. Late-night study sessions and spirited debates over coffee fueled my academic journey.
Teaching and Giving Back
After earning my teaching credentials, I returned to Dallas and embarked on a fulfilling career as an elementary school teacher. I poured my heart into my work, inspiring generations of young minds to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. I wasn’t just a teacher; I was a mentor, guiding my students with love and patience. Watching those young faces light up with understanding was the greatest reward I could ever ask for.
Love and Family
In the early 1960s, I met the love of my life, James Anderson, a kind-hearted mechanic with a passion for classic cars. Our courtship was a whirlwind of romance, and we were married in a small ceremony surrounded by family and friends. Together, we built a life filled with laughter, adventure, and a shared love for travel. Our shared dreams were the cornerstone of our enduring love.
Raising a Family
James and I welcomed two children into our world, Sarah and Michael. My naturing spirit extended beyond the classroom, and I poured my love and wisdom into my own family. I instilled in my children the values of hard work, honesty, and empathy, ensuring they grew into responsible and compassionate adults. The laughter and love that filled our home during those years still warms my heart.
Community Involvement
Throughout my life, I remained deeply connected to my community. I volunteered at local charities, organized neighborhood events, and became a steadfast advocate for education and social justice. My commitment to making my corner of the world a better place hopefully left an indelible mark on those who knew me. It was during these years that I truly understood the power of collective action and the importance of giving back.
Retirement and Beyond
As I approached retirement age, I reflected on the many lives I had touched as a teacher and how many had touched me, and the love I had shared with my family. Retirement brought new opportunities for travel and exploration with James, and we crisscrossed the country in our cherished classic car, visiting national parks and small towns along the way. Those years were a gift, and each new adventure brought us closer together.
Legacy