Venita E. (nee Smith) Chitwood, age 79, of Hobart, passed away December 23, 2016. She was born on January 11, 1937 to the late Johnny Francis and Maye Elizabeth (nee Sisk) Smith. Venita extensively volunteered her time at the Maria Reiner Center and at St. Mary Medical Center. She will be remembered as a loving mother, sister, grandmother, and friend.

Venita is survived by sons, Larry (Michelle) Chitwood, Michael (Pat) Chitwood, Keith Chitwood, Jerry (Becky) Chitwood, Johnnie (Toni) Chitwood; son in law, Terry Allen Kleckner; daughter in law, Taresa Chitwood; brother, Carl (Diane) Smith; 19 grandchildren; 27 great grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Willis Elmer Chitwood; daughter, Carolyn Elizabeth Kleckner; son, Willis Elmer Chitwood, Jr., brother, JC Smith; and sisters, Nevarae Smith, Wanda Avery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made, in Venita's honor, to the Maria Reiner Center, 705 East 4th Street Hobart, IN 46342.

A memorial visitation will take place Thursday, December 29, 2016 from 2-7 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel, 600 W. Old Ridge Rd., Hobart, IN 46342. A memorial service will be held, at the end of visitation, at 7:00 pm at the funeral home with Pastor Bob Burton officiating. Additionally, a St. Mary's Medical Center Auxiliary service will be at 3:30 pm. For more information, please call 219-942-2109. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.