Rita Fay Ainsworth, 70
May 9, 1955 – June 29, 2025
TUPELO – On the morning of June 29, 2025, as worship music filled the room and her family gathered near, Rita Fay Ainsworth took her final breath on this side of Heaven and stepped into glory, free from pain, embraced by peace, and welcomed by the arms of her Savior and the loved ones who had gone before. She was 70 years old.
Rita’s story began in Lacamp, Louisiana, on May 9, 1955, born to Charlie and Roddie Poole Richey. From the very beginning, her life was marked by a deep tenderness of heart, a spark for joy, and a passion for caring for others. That calling would blossom into more than 30 years in nursing, where Rita poured herself into the lives of patients in the assisted living care industry. To her, they were never just patients, they were friends, confidants, and often like family. The same was true of her coworkers, many of whom became her dearest companions and just like family on this journey of life.
But Rita was more than her career. She was a wanderer at heart, traveling the world, cruising the oceans, discovering antique treasures in hidden corners, laughing over the spin of a slot machine, or doting over her beloved goats with the gentleness only she could give. She had a joy that could light up any room and a spirit that was always ready for a dance, a good time, or a shared laugh.
Above all else, Rita loved her family fiercely. Her children and grandchildren were her greatest treasures, and she wore the title of “Mom” and “Nana” with honor and pride. Her life was a tapestry of hugs, holidays, advice, stories, and that special kind of unconditional love only she could give. She leaves behind a legacy not just of love, but of joy, strength, and a “got your back” kind of mothering that never wavered.
Those left to carry on her light include her sons: Brandon Ainsworth (Cassie) of Aubrey, TX, and John Ainsworth (Wendy) of Dorsey, MS; her daughter: Natasha Gaitan of Red Bay, AL; her cherished grandchildren: Fallon, Braeden, Jacob, Rylee, Michael (Zvetlana), Logan (Levi), Chloe, Abigail, and Madilyn; and her precious great-grandchildren: Luciana Rosen, Zephyr Nox, Till Samhain, and Grayson Hunter. She is also survived by her siblings: David Richey (Kathy), Raymond Richey, Betty Rhame (Eddie), and Carol Barron.
Rita is now reunited in Heaven with her beloved husband Ezell Frazier; her parents Charlie and Roddie Poole Richey; her brother Charles Richey; her sister Mary Vermaelen; and her son-in-law, Benjamin Gaitan. What a homecoming it must have been.
A celebration of Rita’s life will be held Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at The Sycamore Church,1212 Nelle St., in Tupelo, Mississippi, with Pastor Eric Burton officiating assisted by Ray Guin. Holland Funeral Directors is honored to be assisting their friends.
Friends and family are invited to gather, remember, and rejoice in the beautiful life of a woman who loved well, lived fully, and taught us all how to find joy in the little things. Her life was a song—and now she dances to a melody only Heaven can hear.
Until we meet again, we’ll carry your light, your laughter, and your love in every step.
“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” – Matthew 25:23
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
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