October 2024 Auburntown "Spotlight of the Month"
Rita Davis
Rita Davis- October Spotlight
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Rita Kay Tate Davis has held Auburntown close to her heart ever since her family became enamored with the community in 1955. Few could have predicted that the young Rita Tate would go on to support the community in numerous ways.
How It All Began... Rita Kay Tate was born to Palmer and Ernestine Tate on a chilly Friday, November 5th, 1948, in Hammond, Indiana. Her two older siblings, Gerald Tate and Ann Tate (Bryson) were eager to welcome her. Later Rita would welcome her younger brother Jeff Tate. In 1953, Rita and her family moved to Auburntown, Tennessee, and stayed until 1955 when work commitments led them to Highland, Indiana. Their fondness for Auburntown endured, and in 1961 they heeded its call, returning to establish deep roots in the community by purchasing a 200-acre farm on Kennedy Creek. Rita Tate attended Auburn School, where she befriended Ernest Davis. By the 10th grade, they were dating and continued their relationship through high school, graduating together in 1966. After graduation, Ernest was drafted into the Army, while Rita attended Elizabeth Floyd's Beauty College. Upon completing beauty school, Rita was employed by country singer-songwriter Jim Ed Brown to style the hair of country music artists. Throughout this period, Rita's heart longed for Ernest, and his for her. Two Become One... Ernest Davis and Rita Tate were unable to bear the distance between them. The minute Ernest completed Basic Training in Kentucky he hitchhiked back to Auburntown to reunite with his beloved. Then on December 20, 1966, Rita Tate became Mrs. Rita Davis in a ceremony held on her parents' Kennedy Creek farm. The Army deployed Ernest to Germany for an 18-month duty, eight months in Rita was able join him there. Together, they lived in Germany for one year before returning to Cannon County. In 1969, they welcomed their first daughter, Kim (Francis), followed by their second daughter, Angie (Whited), in 1972. While cherishing life on their Auburntown farm, their third daughter, Megan, was born in 1978. Community Engagements Rita Davis is an extraordinary woman whose significant contributions have had, and will continue to have, a profound impact on Auburntown. Rita's Hairstyling Rita's Hairstyling was more than just a salon in Auburntown; it was a beloved community center and a local landmark. Rita shared her talent generously, making her establishment a place of warmth and belonging, as echoed by those who nominated her. Even after her retirement from the Main Street location, the legacy of her kindness remains. Rita's Hairstyling served not merely as a business but as a historical fixture that brought people together, nurtured relationships, and crafted lasting memories. . Auburntown City Council Retirement from hairstyling did not mark the end of Rita Davis's community involvement. She continues to be an active participant, now serving as a Councilwoman on the Auburntown City Council, where she offers leadership and support to the community of Auburntown. Behind Her Community Work Rita holds the cherished titles of Mama, Grandma, and MeMe for her wonderful daughters, exceptional sons-in-laws, six amazing grandchildren, and seven precious great-grandchildren. Together with Ernest, she is a dedicated member of their beloved Auburn Baptist Church. Rita's love language is cooking and nurturing her family. She often cooks & shares her delicious meals with those in the community who are sick or in need of a warm meal. Rita consistently goes above and beyond to assist anyone in need, providing substantial support to her family, friends, and community. |
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Rita Davis is a significant contributor to Auburntown's charm- October 2024 Spotlight Resident.
Auburntown "Spotlight of the Month" recognizes the beauty of the community through spotlighting the incredible residents and those that support the Auburntown community. From the life stories that make Auburntown special, or the good neighbor within the community.
Stories waiting to be told and appreciated.
Stories waiting to be told and appreciated.
2023 Auburntown Person of the Year
Donna Gaither Nichols, honored for her dedication to the Auburntown Community.
Full article in the Cannon Courier.
The nomination period for Auburntown Person of the Year begins on October 1st annually and concludes at midnight on November 2nd within the same calendar year. Mark your calendar to nominate for the "2024 Auburntown Person of the Year". See details and guidelines.