Meredith Louise “Weegie” Tarkington Wittkamp, passed away Thursday, Feb. 25, at home, surrounded by her loving family.  Born in Columbia, N.C. on May 23, 1942,

Louise was the daughter of the late Thomas and Louise Hatfield Tarkington.  She was also preceded in death by her late husband, Carl Gene Rickard, in 1999. She had been resident of Smithfield since 1985.

Louise will be remembered for her love of people, always wanting to offer a helping hand.

She began her career as a registered nurse at Maryview Medical Center more than 50 years ago. She continued her career with more education and became a certified registered nurse anesthetist, a distinction she held upon her retirement from Mary Immaculate Hospital after 20-plus years of service.

“Weegie,” as she was affectionately known, was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Thomas “Tom” Wittkamp; her daughter, Sara Throckmorton and her husband, Brien, and grandchildren, Meredith and Trey; her sister, Eva Lynn Morris and nephew, Brian Morris;  stepdaughter, Avery Wittkamp and stepson, Zachary Wittkamp and his wife, Allie, and granddaughter, Larkin; 

The family has planned a private service and suggests memorial contributions to American Cancer Society, Lung Cancer Research, PO Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123
Cremation services provided by Colonial Funeral Home, Carrollton.  Friends and family are encouraged to share remembrances and condolences at www.colonialfuneralhomesmithfield.com.