Saltville, VA

Rita Jane Terry, age 78, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, October 16, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Rita was born on May 27, 1947, to the late George William and Ruby Lee Terry. She was a loving and devoted mother, and grandmother, as well as a successful businesswoman. Known for her strong work ethic and kind heart, Rita made a lasting impact on everyone she met. She was the owner and operator of Rita's Deli for 16 years. She was known for excellent food, and never let anyone go hungry.

Including her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, William Craig "Bimbo" Terry; sister, Susan Amber Jackson; maternal grandparents, Ray and Edith Lee; and paternal grandparents, John and Sallie Terry.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Melissa Parsons and husband, Chuck; grandchildren, Kristi Kelley and husband, Travis, and Adam Parsons; great-grandchildren, Colby Kelley and Kara Kelley; sister-in-law and special caregiver, Deloris Terry; and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Rosa Roark for being a wonderful caregiver, the nurses at JMH Cancer Center, the 2nd floor nurses at JMH, and Ballad Hospice for all of their care and attention.

In lieu of flowers, she requested that donations be made to Feeding America of Southwest Virginia.

A graveside service for Rita Terry will be held at 12 p.m. on Monday, October 20, 2025 at Mount Rose Cemetery in Glade Spring, with Pastor Caleb Kestner and Pastor Wade Kestner officiating. Those serving as pallbearers will be Adam Parsons, Colby Kelley, Chuck Parsons, Adam Terry, Ike Terry, and Travis Kelley. The family will be receiving friends on Sunday at the home.

Online condolences may be expressed at drhendersonfuneralhome.com. The D.R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Rita Jane Terry.