Rita Carol Thames

Rita Carol Thames, born on March 23, 1945, in Picayune, Mississippi, passed away Monday, October 20, 2025, in Gulfport, Mississippi. A beloved member of her community and family, Rita is remembered for her unwavering spirit and her contributions to those around her.

Rita was a woman whose love of family and food brought everyone together. Sunday lunches at her house were a cherished tradition - often turning into five-course feasts complete with her famous homemade cakes and pies. She passed on her love of cooking to her granddaughters, Hadley and Maison, patiently teaching her the chicken and dumpling family recipe and the joy of sharing a meal with love. 

Rita's granddaughters were the light of her life. She took great pride in their accomplishments. She loved hearing about all they were doing. Known for her kindness and her enormous heart, Rita always put her family first. 

Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Simon and Leander Bounds; her husband, Harry Thames; granddaughter, Reese Evelyn Smith; sisters and brothers-in-law, Bertha (Carl) Fleming, Bertie Whitfield, Lucelle (Pete) Lee, Agnes (Hayward) Fleming, Gene Runnells, and Willis (Vivian) Thames. 

Rita is survived by her loving children, Marvin (Sondra) Smith and Teresa (Debbie) Smith, along with her stepchildren, Chellie (Jeff) Schwertz and Clay (Debra) Thames. She will be profoundly missed by her sister, Lou Runnells, and her sister-in-law, Sylvia (James) Foxworth. Additionally, Rita is cherished by her grandchildren, Hadley Smith and Maison Smith, as well as her step-grandchildren, Matt, John, and Grant. The legacy of her love will continue through her large extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye, but we find comfort knowing she is now in heaven, reunited with loved ones who passed before her. Her warmth, generosity, and love will live one in all who were blessed to know her. 

Family and friends will gather at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, MS for a visitation Friday, October 24, 2025, beginning at 4:00 pm. Funeral service will begin at 5:00 pm, int the chapel. Interment will be Saturday, October 25, 2025, at Leetown #2 Cemetery. 

Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.riemannfamily.com.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is honored to be serving the family.