Rita Schnebelen

Rita (Sarna) Schnebelen left this world at age 91 on February 21, 2026, to join the Lord and loved ones who went before her, especially her husband and eldest son. Rita was born in North Little Rock, Arkansas to Annie (Stozek) and John Sarna on April 6, 1934. She was a lifelong member of St Mary’s Catholic Church in NLR, and the second oldest surviving member of the church at the time of her passing. Rita attended St Mary's grade school and then graduated high school from Mount St Mary Academy in 1951. Rita was a devout Christian and Catholic her entire life. 

She was married to her beloved husband, Snookie, for 25 years when she was suddenly widowed at age 44. Rita leaned heavily upon her faith in God and was always an example of grace, strength and devotion as a mother. After her children were older, she attended college at UALR and earned an Associate Degree at age 50. She then worked at Systematics/Alltel and was highly regarded for being a gracious and kind woman, along with being an excellent employee. After her retirement, she enjoyed many years of vibrant health, fun times with family and friends, and traveling with AARP groups. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Alfred “Snookie” Schnebelen, her son, Chris Schnebelen, her parents, and all of her siblings. She was the matriarch of our family and is survived by her children, Mark Schnebelen (Nancy) of Cabot, Joanna Tucker (Eric) of Little Rock, Eric Schnebelen (Angie) of Sherwood, Perry Schnebelen of Denver, Colorado, and Brian Schnebelen (Candice) of North Little Rock, along with a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom she loved with all her heart. Rita will be deeply missed by many. She was truly one of a kind. 

Visitation will be Sunday, March 1st, 4-6pm at Smith Funeral Home in NLR with a Rosary to follow. Funeral Mass will be Monday, March 2nd, 11am at St Mary's Catholic Church, NLR. A private graveside family service is scheduled at Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Rita's memory to North Little Rock Catholic Academy (NLRCA) or to St. Mary’s Catholic Church NLR. The family thanks everyone for their kindness and prayers for Rita.