Retha Alane Smith Malphrus

Retha Alane Smith Malphrus, age 86, of Ridgeland and wife of Oswell (Ossie) Vincent Malphrus entered into her Heavenly home on July 7, 2021.

Retha was born in Hampton County on July 10, 1934 to the late Charles Smith and Catherine DeLoach Smith.

Retha is survived by her husband of 67 years; her four children, Oswell Vincent “Vince” Malphrus (Sarah), Georgia Malphrus Luesing (Luke), James “Craig” Malphrus (Faye) and Todd “Searcy” Malphrus (Marian); six grandchildren; five great grandchildren; numerous stepgrands and nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her brother, Marvin Lloyd Smith and her sister, Mary Ellen Postell.

Retha was a member of the Ridgeland Baptist Church and a member of the Senior Ladies Sunday School class.  She was an avid fisherman and gardener.  She took great pleasure in tending to her beautiful flowers and working in their vegetable garden.

She loved spending time with her family and preparing delicious meals for them to enjoy.  She was accomplished in needlepoint and quilting.  She and Ossie enjoyed going on many adventures along with her sister over the years.

The family will receive friends beginning at 2:00 pm, Sunday, July 11, 2021 at Ridgeland Baptist Church until the hour of the service at 3:00 pm.  Burial will follow at Great Swamp Cemetery.

Please consider contributing to your local church or Amedisys Hospice in memory of Retha.