In Loving Memory of Rita Fae Rector

July 31, 1948 – July 11, 2026

Rita Fae Rector was a woman who lived a full, vibrant life defined by her dedication to her family, her passions, and her community. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones, on July 11, 2026, in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, leaving behind a legacy of faith, hope, and love.

Born on July 31, 1948, in Jackson, Michigan, Rita was a graduate of East Jackson High School, where she was voted "Best Looking" by her classmates. She was a lifelong lover of music and dancing, a talented majorette and baton twirler, and possessed a "gift of gab" that stayed with her throughout her life.

In 1966, Rita married Dallas Hudson. Together, they raised their three children in Grayling, Michigan. During this chapter, Rita pursued her passion for beauty and style, earning her cosmetology license. After moving to Florida, she successfully opened and operated her own beauty salon, turning her talent into a career that allowed her to connect deeply with her community. She later met and married her devoted husband, JT Rector.

Rita found her greatest joy in the simple pleasures of life and the great outdoors. She cherished her garden, spending countless hours tending to her plants and flowers. She found beauty in nature, especially when watching cardinals, hummingbirds, butterflies, and squirrels while enjoying a cup of coffee. She was also an avid boater who loved to fish.

The magic of the Christmas season brought her so much joy, and she was famous for making the best peanut butter fudge for everyone. Above all, she dedicated her time to her family and extended family on a daily basis.

Rita was a proud VFW member in honor of her beloved father and a dedicated advocate for Autism Awareness in honor of her great-grandson, her "Lil" Kash.

Rita was predeceased by her parents, Jack and Florence Holcomb; her sister, Sue Holcomb; and her brother, Jack Holcomb.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her beloved husband, JT Rector; her brother, Gregg Holcomb; her three children, Kevin Hudson and his wife Sammy, Ralph and Kelly Wilson, and Kraig Hudson; her grandchildren, Chelsea Kraft, Ashley Hudson, Sierra Justus, Savannah Hudson, Dallas Hudson, and Piper Hudson; and her great-grandchildren, Brayden Hudson, Noah Hudson, Kash Hodges, and Selah Justus.

Rita’s legend of kindness, hard work, and love will live on through her family and all those fortunate enough to have known her. She possessed a vibrant, fun-loving personality and was always eager to lend a helping hand to those in need. She will be deeply missed.

She loved you all.