Rita Kay Black

Rita Kay Black, age 75, was born on September 12, 1949, in Memphis, TN, passed away on April 5, 2025, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, TN. She leaves behind a legacy marked by her dedication to both her family and her career, which reflected her deep compassion for others.

Rita was a passionate advocate for the development and well-being of special needs adults, finding fulfillment in her role as a Teacher Assistant at St. Dominic's School. Her commitment to education and care for others was further demonstrated by her long-standing involvement with the hand made children's clothing community through her sewing shop La-Di-Da , where her talents shone in creating clothing for children.

A proud holder of a master's degree, Rita's educational achievements were important to her, and her encouragement of lifelong learning left a lasting impression on those she encountered. Moreover, her love for the Lord, her husband, and her grandchildren was at the heart of her being. Rita found joy in her family, cherishing the time spent with her loved ones, particularly her four grandchildren: Samuel Douglass Black, Gates Marie Black, Clayton Douglass Black, and Gabriel Douglass Black.

Rita is survived by her two sons, Jason Douglass Black and his wife Megan, and Charles Clifton Black and his wife Melissa, both residing in Memphis, TN; her daughter, Ashley Scott Black Harris and her husband Drew of Lake City, AR; as well as her sister, Donna Lee Buchanan of Mission Viejo, CA.

Rita is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edd Douglass Black, and her parents, Samuel Clifton Buchanan and Juanita Scott Buchanan.

Services honoring Rita Kay Black will be held privately by the family at Stanton Cemetery in Stanton, TN.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorials be made to the Stanton Methodist Church, c/o Katie Woods, P.O. Box 39, Stanton, TN 38069 or to the Stanton Cemetery, c/o Dana Woods, P.O. Box 207, Stanton, TN 38069.

Rita's memory will forever be cherished by her family and friends, who will remember her kindness, strength, and unwavering love. All arrangements and services are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.