Mrs. Rita Joyce Manchester

Rita Joyce Manchester, 81, of DeWitt, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2025, at DeWitt City Nursing Home. Born on April 14, 1944, to Claude and Carmen Adams, Rita spent her life rooted in the community that shaped her and which she, in turn, helped shape through a lifetime of service. Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Claude and Carmen Adams of DeWitt; her husband, Doug Manchester; her son, Kirk Smith; her sister, Danna Jo Richter; and her nephews, Shane Adams and Craig Richter. Their memories remained close to her heart throughout her life. She is survived by her brothers, Billy Claude Adams (Carolyn) of Heber Springs and Russell Adams (Cathy) of DeWitt; her grandson, Noah Smith and Libby Nash (Drake and Lilly) of Stuttgart; her stepdaughter, Lila McKewen, along with Lila’s sons Layton and Cread; and her devoted friend Harley Gill, who brought her much joy and companionship in her later years. Rita’s professional life was a testament to her dedication and work ethic. Whether helping customers at her family’s business, Adams Grocery, supporting local families through the Arkansas County Extension Office, working within the Arkansas County Detention Center, or assisting clients at Arkansas County Bank, Rita brought integrity, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility to every role. Her ability to connect with people and make them feel seen and valued made her a respected presence wherever she worked. A woman of deep and abiding faith, she was a familiar and beloved face in her church. She was known for sharing the gospel with conviction and humility and was always quick to lend a hand, offer a prayer, or simply show up when someone needed her. Her faith wasn’t just something she spoke about—it was something she lived, daily, with quiet strength. Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 22, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Essex Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow on Wednesday, April 23, at 10:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church in DeWitt, Arkansas. Memorials may be made to Operation Christmas Child, c/o First Baptist Church, 322 W. 1st St., DeWitt, AR 72042 or Romanian Missions, c/o Colleen Benthal, Southern Bancorp, P.O. Box 511, DeWitt, AR 72042.

Mrs. Rita Joyce Manchester

April 14, 1944 - April 20, 2025