Rita Elizabeth Nelms Haynes, 87, of Vienna, VA, passed away on November 29, 2025. Born in Montgomery, AL, Rita earned her Education degree from Florida State University. While in Florida, she met her husband of 64 years, William "Bill" Haynes, Jr.
A dedicated educator, Rita taught at Spring Hill Elementary for 25 years before a second career in real estate. She was an artist, a lover of Boston Bull Terriers, and a woman of profound empathy who frequently opened her home to those in need.
Rita was preceded in death by her husband, Bill. Her children survive her: Lynne DePaso (Tommy), William Haynes (Deb), and Scott Haynes (Debbie); six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Food for Others at foodforothers.org.
Posted online on January 07, 2026
Published in Montgomery Advertiser