March 30, 1953 ~ August 4, 2026 (age 73)
“Juanita Marie Smoke Hornsby, known throughout her life as “Nita,” passed away on August 4, 2026, at the age of 73. She was born in Auburn, Alabama, on March 30, 1953, and lived there with her family her entire life. For more than a year, Nita fought Acute Myeloid Leukemia with strength and determination, and she passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones.
Nita was preceded in death by her husband, Ray Longshore of Cherokee County, Alabama; her father, Dr. Herbert Lamar Smoke of Dallas County, Alabama; and her mother, Frances Rebecca Payne Smoke of Shelby County, Alabama.
She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her memory, including her son, Ross Hornsby; her daughter, Kimberly Recktenwald; her sister, Kay Webster; her stepson, Cody Longshore (Mallory); her stepdaughter, Jill Wardlow (Jeremy); and her grandchildren, Lucy Recktenwald and Ethan Recktenwald. She is also survived by her nieces, nephews, cousins, step-grandchildren, and many dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing her.
For more than 35 years, Nita worked at Auburn University in Student Life and Admissions, where she built lasting friendships and was known for her friendly nature and genuine interest in the people she met.
After retiring, Nita devoted herself to caring for her mother. She cherished time with her grandchildren, Lucy and Ethan, her pride and joy, and attended their school and sporting events for as long as she was able. She adored her two miniature Australian shepherds, Sophie and Cookie, whom she called her babies.
Ray kept her laughing and entertained, and the two of them loved gathering with friends, family, and neighbors. Nita was an avid Auburn football and Atlanta Braves fan, just like her mother, and she had a deep interest in genealogy and family history.
Nita never hesitated to help someone in need, offer a listening ear, or make another person feel cared for. Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in the memories she created, the laughter she shared, and the love with which she surrounded them.
Visitation will be held at Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home in Opelika, AL on Friday, August 7, 2026 from 5:00-7:00 pm. The funeral service will be held at Grace United Methodist Church in Auburn, AL on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 10:00 am. The burial will follow at Town Creek Cemetery in Auburn, AL.”
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