Rita Jane Parks Abel, 81, of Belzoni, passed away Friday, January 17, 2020, at her home.

Rita was born June 7, 1938, in Belzoni to Howard Tip Parks and Daisy Mae Sibley Parks. She graduated from Delta State University with a bachelor's degree in Psychology. Rita owned Adobe Pottery in Belzoni for 36 years prior to her retirement. She enjoyed art, painting, and making sculptures. Rita was very friendly and talkative and would always laugh when she talked. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Belzoni.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Billie Joe Abel, Sr.; and a nephew, Donnie Parks, Jr.

She is survived by one daughter, Tana Jane Franklin and husband Dirk of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; three sons, Billie Joe Abel, Jr. and wife Jessica of Duncan, Brad Parks Abel of Belzoni, and Brian Tip Abel of Puerto Rico; one brother, Donald Parks of Belzoni; and four grandchildren, Ben Abel, Sarah Abel, Hayley Franklin, and Holden Franklin.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, January 21, 2020, from 10:00 am until the 11:00 am funeral service at First Baptist Church in Belzoni. A private family burial will follow in Belzoni Cemetery. Burton Funeral Home in Indianola has been entrusted with arrangements.

Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.burtonfuneralhome.net