Rita Carroll, age 83, passed away peacefully at her home on June 10, 2026. She was born on Jan. 16, 1943, in Baytown, Texas, to Woodrow Walker Carroll and Comelia Fannett Carroll.
A lifelong resident of the Baytown area for most of her life, Rita was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She graduated from Barbers Hill High School and dedicated her life to caring for her family as a homemaker. Her greatest joy came from spending time with those she loved, especially during family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Rita had a passion for traveling and cherished her trips to the mountains of Colorado and Idaho. She loved gardening and took great pride in her beautiful fl owers. An exceptional cook, she was well known for making what many considered the best Thanksgiving dressing. Thanksgiving was her favorite holiday, bringing together family, food, and cherished memories around her table.
She also enjoyed shopping and was known for having more clothes than anyone could imagine. Rita appreciated the fi ner things in life and loved collecting trinkets and keepsakes from the many places she visited throughout the years. Her beloved Yorkshire Terriers brought her endless companionship and happiness, and she adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren beyond measure.
She is survived by her son, Bobby Lee Steadham; daughter, Leigh Ann Garner and husband, Richard; brothers, Woodrow Carroll and wife, Sharron, and Benny Carroll; sisters, Patsy Denman and Vickie Carroll; her grandchildren, Scott Heffernan and wife, Synthia, Heaven Cernosek and husband, Jason, Ali Lide and husband, Shaun, Kyle Steadham, and Kaylee Steadham; and great-grandchildren, Collyn, Christian, Jack, Cohen, Brent, and Hank.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Woodrow Walker Carroll and Comelia Fannett Carroll; son, Brent Layne Steadham; and siblings, Gloria Clark, Fredia Clark, Franklin Carroll, Melba Clark, Faye Carroll, and Stanley Carroll.
A funeral service celebrating Rita’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, June 15, 2026, at Mont Belvieu Fisher Chapel, located in front of Mont Belvieu Methodist Church, with Pastor Ronald Mohler officiating. A burial will follow at Cedarcrest Cemetery in Baytown, Texas.
Rita will be remembered for her loving heart, her devotion to family, her generous spirit, and the many cherished memories she leaves behind. Her legacy of love, hospitality, and family traditions will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.