Rita Brady Smyth, aged 88, passed away peacefully on February 15th, 2025, in Ocala, Florida, surrounded by the love and warmth of her family. Born on October 15th, 1936, in Uddingston, Scotland, Rita’s zest for life and her unwavering spirit touched the hearts of everyone she encountered throughout her journey. 

Rita, known affectionately to friends and family as Nana, is survived by a family that was the centrepiece of her world. Her legacy continues through her children, Maureen Smyth Wilkins (Jeremy), Sheila Smyth (Michael Kramer), Deirdre Smyth (Lucas van Son), Brenda Smyth, and Conar Smyth. Her joy was multiplied by her cherished grandchildren, Mavalynne (Phillip Lewis), Cristina, Amanda, Brendan (Mairèad Hession), Conar, Liam, Sophie, Joanna, Abraham, Desmond and Thomas, as well as her adored great-grandchildren, Edie, Fraser, Bella and Elena. Rita’s sister, Maureen McGuire, along with numerous nieces and nephews, also hold dear the memory of her loving spirit.  

Ritas’s early years in Scotland laid the foundation for a life filled with passion and purpose. At the age of 18 she embarked on a journey across the Atlantic eventually making her way to Toronto Canada, and later to Maracaibo, Venezuela. There she married Paul Smyth and together they raised five children, becoming an integral part of a vibrant multinational community of fellow immigrants and native Venezuelans. Known for her lively parties, delicious brownies and tireless charity work, with Irish missionary nuns and priests, she lived her Catholic faith in service and community. 

A member of the Maracaibo Ladies Tennis Club, she found great joy in the camaraderie and spirit of the game, and her game was as sharp as her wit. Crafting was another of Rita’s passions, and her hands were rarely still. She lovingly sewed and knitted, creating “dreaming” dresses for her grandchildren, each stitch a testament to her dedication and love. 

Rita’s journey eventually brought her to Florida, where she built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and the music she loved. A welcoming hostess, she kept her door open, her table ready, and her stories close at hand to share. 

A dedicated Bridge player, Rita’s sharp mind and social nature made her both a tough competitor and a favourite at the card table. Whether telling a story or breaking into song, she had a natural way of bringing people together, making every gathering lively and memorable. 

Beyond her personal interests, Rita was deeply committed to giving back to her community. She volunteered countless hours at a local Thrift Store, where her generosity and warmth helped to brighten the lives of those around her. 

As we bid farewell to Rita Brady Smyth, we celebrate a life richly lived and a legacy of love and laughter that will forever resonate in the lives of those who knew her. Her stories will be retold, her songs will be sung, and her memory will be cherished in the hearts of her family and friends for generations to come. 

A life so fully lived deserves to be remembered. Rita’s presence will be profoundly missed, yet her spirit will continue to guide and comfort us as we navigate the path she has left behind. May she rest in peace, knowing that her time here was a gift to us all, and her impact will never be forgotten.