Rhua Smith

Rhua Bernice Smith, age 91, of Belle, formerly of Linn, passed away Monday, January 9, 2012, at Westphalia Hills. Bernice was born February 26, 1920, in Judge, a daughter to the Leo E. and Ada (Branson) White. Bernice was a graduate of Linn High School. On April 25, 1943, she was united in marriage to Delbert Smith at Solid Rock Baptist Church in Judge. He preceded her in death on June 11, 1992. Bernice taught school at Deer Creek and worked for Chesebrough-Ponds as an assembly line worker until she retired in 1987. Solid Rock Baptist Church was her home church where she played the piano, taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. She also conducted bible study out of her home. She was past President of WMU. Survivors include: two sons, Bruce L. and his wife Lori Smith of Jefferson City, and Bryan D. and his wife Carmen Smith of St. Ann; three daughters, Ellen M. and her husband Kenny Greer of Rolla, Sue Lange of Jefferson City, and Rhua E. and her husband Darrell Ridenhour of Belle; one brother, Roscoe White of Philadelphia, Pa.; two sisters, Venona Bergmeier of Topeka, Kan., and Virginia Parker; 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends. In addition to husband and parents, she was preceded in death by: one brother, Nelson White; one son-in-law, Lee Vern Lange; and one great-grandchild, Trevor Smith. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 12, 2012, at Morton Chapel in Linn. An additional visitation will be held on Friday, January 13, 2012, from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. at Solid Rock Baptist Church. Funeral Services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 13, 2012, at Solid Rock Baptist Church. Interment will follow in the Solid Rock Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Solid Rock Baptist Church. Arrangements are under the direction of Morton Chapel, Linn, Mo. (573-897-2214) www.mortonchapel.com