Rita Dougherty Ashworth, age 77 of Nickelsville, VA, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. Rita was born on January 25, 1949, in Kingsport, TN to R. Gene and Valice Dougherty. On July 18, 1968, Rita married her most cherished friend and love of her life, Paul Ashworth, and after 53 years of a beautiful life together, he preceded her in death in 2022.

Rita was a very loving and kind person. She had a genuine heart and she loved people. She loved cooking for her family and friends, as her love language was cooking and serving others. Rita’s family was her heavenly blessing here on earth, especially Tinsley Kate and Tucker Joe. Rita will be truly missed by all those who know her.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents; her devoted husband, Paul Ashworth; son, Brandon Paul Ashworth; and son-in-law, Will Robinette. Those left to cherish her memory are her son, Michael Ashworth (Patty); daughter, Tina Ware (Greg); six grandchildren, Miranda Blakely (Gage), Mason Robinette, Madison Burk (Trey), Nathaniel Bragg (Nicole), Deacon Bragg, and Brittany Meek; four great grandchildren, Tinsley Kate, Tucker Joe, Brooklyn, and Mackenzie; two brothers, Darrell Dougherty (Doris), and James L. Dougherty; two children of her heart, Roger Russell, and Brian “Shorty” Large; and many other loving family and friends.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11:00 am at Addington Frame Cemetery with Pastor David Hodges officiating. Rita’s family and friends will be serving as pallbearers. Those wishing to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at Scott County Funeral Home at 10:15 am to process to the cemetery.  The family will receive friends at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Kingsport, following the graveside service. The church is located at 1444 Bloomingdale Road, Kingsport, TN.

Carter-Trent / Scott County Funeral Home Weber City is serving the Ashworth family.