With sadness, the family of Mrs. Rita Anne Smiley reports her peaceful passing, at home, on Sunday,
January 8, 2023 at the age of 90 years. In the end, her heart likely failed her, but it never once failed any
of those who were lucky to be her family or friend. Rita was born on April 18,1932 in Lebret,
Saskatchewan, to parents Angus and Marguerite McDougald. She was raised as a rural, prairie girl in the
wartime period, which provided her with lifelong habits of frugality and prudence. No one could
describe her as wasteful or extravagant. She has said that she was never, under any circumstance, ever
without a dime in her wallet. At least, that was true when a dime meant something. She later moved to
the bright lights-big city of Winnipeg, Manitoba, where she met the man who would become her
husband–the disc jockey at the Sunday night CYL dance, Ted Smiley. She and Ted married on July 17,
1954. Our mother was beloved by those who knew her. In recent years, she had daily home care to assist
her so that she could remain independent in her own home. Since being advised of her passing, we have
heard from her helpers how visiting her home was a highlight of their day. She was funny, kind, and oh-
so-curious about people’s histories and stories, which naturally inspired their strong affinity for her. A
talker herself–oh, how she could talk–there was rarely a moment of silence when she was with another
person, and sometimes even when she was by herself. Mom’s ability to keep track of her countless
conversations with all of us, including details we ourselves had forgotten, was nothing short of
remarkable. One didn’t need to be a living member of the family to warrant Rita’s interest. She keenly
studied genealogy over the years with her son, John and stayed in close touch with extended family
members. A cousin, upon learning of Mom’s death said, “We had enjoyed several phone calls over the
past year, and I was always amazed at how bright and sharp she was, and equally amazed at how she spit
in the eye of her infirmities and refused to be held hostage. What a woman!”. Rita will be terribly
missed by her children, Patrick (Marian), Jennifer, Bernie (Dave), Kas (Mark), and John, along with
eight grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren. Rita was predeceased by her loving husband, Ted,
her parents, and her siblings, Cathy and Donald. A private family funeral service will be held at a later
date. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at
www.parklandfuneralhome.com

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer)

6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

ONLY LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER.

• Date : 2023-01-26
• Location : www.ParklandFuneralHome.com & www.HeartlandFuneralServices.com