Mary Rita Smith

Mary Rita Smith was born and raised in Baltimore. She attended St. Martin’s Catholic School, where she maintained perfect attendance during all her years. She graduated in 1942. She participated in many sports, i.e.: Basketball, Volleyball, Track and Bowling teams, winning many medals.

Upon graduation Mary Rita worked as a secretary for the Social Security Administration. She was married in 1948 to James “Smitty” Smith, who died in 1994. Mary Rita moved to Glen Burnie in 1959. She belonged to the International Order of the Alhambra. For many years the Alhambra supported the Special Olympics. Mary Rita enjoyed baking, crocheting, embroidery, decorating and antiques. She was a member of St. Philip Neri Catholic Church in Linthicum.

Mary Rita spent the last eight years of her life at Brightview Senior Assisted Living, Bel Air, MD. Anyone who entered the facility knew Mary Rita as the lady at the elevator. She sat on the bench every day with her piece of fruit, napkin and the newsletter for the day. She always had a smile and a little "ditty" to tell anyone who would talk to her. The family would like to express their sincere thanks to the Administration and all Team Members of the Brightview Senior Assisted Living, Bel Air. For eight years they have been an extended family to Mary Rita, loving and caring for her. They were her "Angels" and she loved each of them.

Mary Rita is survived by her nephew, Alfred Pollock and his wife, Linda; Eric Koppleman and his wife, Tammy and many other nieces and nephews; and dear friend, Marty Bryant. Along with her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, James J. Smith; and her siblings, Catherine Koppleman and William Herrlich.

The family will receive visitors at Singleton Funeral & Cremation Services, P.A., 1 2nd Ave. SW (at Crain Hwy) on Tuesday, Jan. 5th from 2-5 pm. A Funeral Mass will be Celebrated at St. Philip Neri Church on Wednesday, Jan. 6th at 11:30 AM. Interment MD Veterans Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Mary Rita’s name to Brightview Assisted Living Bel Air, Attn: Jennifer Bourgeois, 300 W Ring Factory Rd, Bel Air, MD 21014