Rita Jefferson Austin, 78, of Danville, VA, passed away on September 15, 2025 at her daughter's residence in Claremont.

Rita was born on June 5, 1947 in Pittsylvania County, VA to the late Earl and Mary Ola Gillispie Jefferson. Rita was a member of Faith Memorial Baptist Church and retired as a bookkeeper for an electric company. She enjoyed shopping and spending time with her family.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, David Austin; a brother, David Jefferson; and the father of her daughter, Johnny Duncan.

Those left to cherish his/her memory are;

Step-Sons: Jonathon Austin and wife Janice of Blacksburg, VA

Nathan Austin of Huntsville, AL

Daughter: Lisa Duncan Setzer and husband Jason of Claremont

Step-Daughter: Tammy Franks of Danville, VA

Grandchildren: Lauren Moser, Jackson Moser, Brandi Franks, Hannah Ross, Madison Austin, Josh Austin, and Jordan Austin

8 Great-Grandchildren

An inurnment service to celebrate Rita's life will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Danville Memorial Gardens in Danville, VA. The family will receive friends following the service.

Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123.

Condolences may be sent to the Austin family at www.bennettfuneralservice.com.

The Austin family is in the care of Bennett Funeral Service, 7878 NC Hwy 16, Newton.