Rita Richardson Kelley

Rita Richardson Kelley, 79, of Kingsport, TN, passed away on Thursday, October 24, 2024. Ms. Kelley was born April 6, 1945, in Oak Ridge, TN. She was the daughter of the late Claude and Ruth Richardson and was a graduate of Sullivan High School class of 1963, and ETSU. Ms. Kelley retired after teaching for over 30 years in the Sullivan County School System. She was of the Baptist faith and was a member of Sullivan Baptist Church. Ms. Kelley was an avid golfer and crafter.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Arline Ferguson; and brothers, Kenneth “Yogi” Richardson, Jerry Richardson, and Jim Richardson.

Those left to cherish her memory include her special sister-in-law and “nurse”, Sharron Richardson; nieces, Beth Copas and Laura Richardson; nephews, Jeff Richardson (wife Lisa), Anthony Richardson (wife Jamie), Michael Richardson, and Mitchell Richardson (wife Jennifer); several great and great-great nieces and nephews; many cousins; her dearest friend, Clay Hammonds; and wonderful neighbors, friends, and golfing buddies.

A special thanks to Dr. Zach Birch, the nursing staff at ICU and A500 at Holston Valley, the staff at Smokey Mountain Home Health, and the staff at Amedisys Hospice, especially her nurse Malika, for the wonderful care she received.

Per her request, there will not be a formal service. However family and friends are invited to come visit and share memories from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sullivan Baptist Church Building Fund, 4152 Maplewood St, Kingsport, TN 37660.