KINGSPORT - Hilda L. âRitaâ Farthing, 96, of Kingsport passed away on Monday, May 10, 2021, at her residence.
Mrs. Farthing was born in Cardiff, Wales, and she grew up there. She met the love of her life, William J. Farthing, during World War II when he was stationed in Cardiff while serving in the U.S. Army. They were married in 1945 in Cardiff, and she came to the US in 1946. Mrs. Farthing became an American Citizen in the 1960âs; as well, as obtaining her nursing degree. She loved being a nurse, and her daughter, Carol Lane, and granddaughter, Michelle Lane, followed her into the nursing profession. She was most proud of assisting Dr. Joseph Smiddy in establishing the fiberoptic bronchoscopy room at Holston Valley Medical Center, including giving the various scopes Welsh names. Prior to becoming a nurse, Mrs. Farthing was known for her skills as a seamstress. Her daughters and her daughterâs dolls were known for having the best and most stylish wardrobes in th