Rita Edwards

Rita Edwards, age 65, passed away on October 1, 2025.

Rita was born in Cookeville, TN to David and Laura Edwards. She lived a life full of love, creativity, and kindness. Rita had a passion for crafts, ceramics, baking, and spending time outdoors. She enjoyed long drives, the peacefulness of the mountains, and the serenity of the beach. Above all, her greatest joy came from her children, grandchildren, and family, whom she loved dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, David Edwards and Laura Edwards.

Rita is survived by her children, Jeremy Franklin Kanipes and his wife Cristie Kanipes, and Laura Marie Ramasamy and her spouse Sivam Ramasamy; siblings, Terri Miller, Debra Hoge and her husband Benjamin Hoge, Ben Edwards, and Jeanie Wright and her husband Steve Wright; and her beloved grandchildren, Logan Jeremiah Kanipes, Ethan Noah Kanipes, Sophia Nalla Ramasamy, and Cole Houston Ramasamy.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 12:00-2:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. at 2412 Georgetown Rd., Cleveland, TN 37311, with Rob Anderssen officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Carmel Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Rita's favorite charity, the Ronald McDonald House, in her honor.

Rita will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.