Rita Bond Hite
Rita Bond Hite, 87, of Radford, Virginia, entered her heavenly rest on February 10, 2026, passing peacefully with the grace and quiet strength that marked her life. Born on May 26, 1938, Rita was a lifelong resident of Radford and a devoted member of Calvary Baptist Church, where her faith shaped her days and her relationships. At Calvary, Rita was active as a director of the Sparks AWANA program for many years, and a founding member of the Sarah Daniels Circle where she also served terms as an officer, including president.
Rita was the daughter of Margaret Gibson and Harry Bond, and the step daughter of Delmas Gibson. She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years and high school sweetheart, Ken Hite, her parents, and all eleven of her siblings, making her the last surviving child of a large and loving family.
She is survived by her children, who were the pride of her life: Chuck Hite (Carol), Howard Hite (Tess), Michael Hite (Jenny) and Cindy Tolbert (Bill).
Rita’s legacy continues through her 11 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren, 1 great-great- grandchild, many nieces and nephews and her little dog, Annie, each of whom brought her immense joy. Her home was a place of welcome, her heart a source of steady encouragement, and her presence a blessing to all who knew her. She loved sharing daily cups of coffee and watching Dr. David Jeremiah with her long-time best friend, Patty Mabry.
Rita’s life was defined by faith, family, and a quiet perseverance. She will be remembered for her gentle yet sassy spirit, her unwavering love, her Christian witness, her love for gardening, and the deep roots she planted in the community she cherished. Rita served her community through the years first as a switchboard operator, legal secretary and later as a medical transcriptionist at the original St. Albans, at Radford Community Hospital on 8th Street, and at Carilion New River Valley Medical Center.
Rita is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford, Va. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, February 15th, at Calvary Baptist Church. The family will receive friends at 3:00 pm followed by the service at 4:00 pm. Everyone is encouraged to wear joyful attire to honor Rita at this celebration of her life. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to The Missions Fund, The Blessing Meals Fund, The Etta-Kait Fund, The Clair Bear Strong Fund or the General Fund at Calvary Baptist Church in Radford Virginia.
The family is thankful for the loving and attentive care given by Carilion Hospice. A special word of thanks to Rita’s nurses and aide, Missy, Stephanie and Alexis. Thanks also to Ms. Clara Sowers for providing much needed supplies, equipment and advice. What a blessing you have all been.
Her family and friends take comfort in knowing she is now reunited with those who went before her and rests in the peace of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. “Be still and know that I am God” Psalm 46:10.
