Rita Faye Hoyle Brown was born on October 17, 1962 to Willie G. Hoyle and Thelma Boyd Hoyle in Gastonia, North Carolina. She was called home to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 3, 2021 at her home in Gastonia. Her death was not Covid related.

Rita and her two brothers grew up attending St. Peter’s A.M.E. Zion Church in Gastonia. Her favorite ministries there were the children’s choir and the Buds of Promise. She also enjoyed competing with her brothers academically.

Rita was a 1980 graduate of Ashbrook High School. After attending Gaston College and UNC-Charlotte, Rita was employed by Freight Liner of Gastonia. She later moved to Charlotte and worked professionally as an HR Senior Analyst with Alight Financial Services (formerly named Hewitt Associates and Aon) for 16 ½ years until her transition to glory. While in Charlotte, she also became a faithful member of Victory Christian Center and knew Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Savior.

Her favorite past-time was watching the Carolina Panthers. Her favorite player was CAM Newton. She also enjoyed traveling, shopping, and spending quality time with her family. She adored her grandchildren, and they were extremely fond of their “Mi-Maw.”

A breast cancer survivor, Rita was a gentle and compassionate spirit, but also a very brave and strong fighter. When Rita wasn’t feeling well, you would never know it. Despite any situation, she always found a way to make you laugh with her witty comebacks. With her beautiful bright smile; her contagious laughter; and her sweet but confident voice; she remarkably always knew the right words to say to make everyone feel special and loved. This shining star will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Rita was preceded in death by her husband, Carlton “Speedy” Brown, who transitioned on November 2, 2008, and by her father, Willie G. Hoyle, who transitioned on Easter Sunday, 2001.

Rita leaves to cherish fond memories her Mother, Thelma Boyd Hoyle; daughter, Shakera Shante’ Hoyle; son, Tomares “TC” Cleveland Brown (Sivilay); two brothers, Reginald E. Hoyle (Gail) and Roger L. Hoyle (Marilyn); two stepchildren, Shonda Benton and Carlton “Jr” Benton (Sheika); grandchildren Shaniya Lipscomb, Tierra Lipscomb, Rihanna Lipscomb, Zion Clark, Sophie Brown, Kevetta Little, Honesty Benton, Chi’jeim Benton, Jalexus Watson, Jamiyah Watson, Jurnee Williams; endeared to her heart were best friends Charlene Gash, Diane Belton, and Darlene Abili; a special friend Gabriel Lowe; a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family and dear friends.

Walk thru viewing at the funeral home on Saturday; January 9, 2021 from 11 until 2

Outside service at the funeral home on Sunday; January 10, 2021 at 12 noon

Interment: Philadelphia United Methodist Church Cemetery, Lawndale