Mrs. Otelia Lynette Fitzgerald passed away on Friday, February 9, 2024.

In the heart of Brooklyn, amidst the hustle and bustle of city life, a vibrant soul named Otelia Lenette McFarlin Fitzgerald, affectionately known as Tia, graced the world with her presence on December 18, 1964. Born to the late Betty Otelia McFarlin and the late Jacob Cornelius “JC” McFarlin, Tia was a beacon of light, warmth, and boundless energy.

From her earliest days, Tia’s personality shone brightly. She possessed a gift for storytelling that could capture life’s moments, big and small, captivating her audience for hours on end, with narratives that sparkled with wit and wisdom. No stranger could remain a stranger for long in Tia’s presence, as her warmth and friendliness made everyone feel seen and valued.

Her love for literature, Scrabble, movies, and culinary arts was surpassed only by her devout commitment to her faith and family. During the evenings, you could find her immersed in the pages of her Bible, drawing strength and comfort from its words, a habit that underscored her deep-rooted faith and guided her through life’s journey. During her earlier years, Tia and her family were devoted members of Berean Missionary Baptist Church. It was there Tia's spiritual journey began, culminating in her baptism during her teenage years.

Tia's professional journey led her from the halls of South Shore HS in Brooklyn to a distinguished career as a research librarian at the Bank of New York, where she dedicated over two decades of her life.

Later, she found her soulmate in David A. Fitzgerald, whom she married on December 19, 2004, forging a bond built on God’s word, love, laughter, and unwavering companionship. Her relocation to Greensboro, NC, brought with it new adventures and opportunities, yet her magnetic presence remained a constant source of joy and comfort to those around her. They became members of One Nation Under God Ministries.

As a seasoned navigator of numerical fortunes, Tia's mathematical skills extended beyond mere calculations; it was a gift she generously shared with family and friends, enriching their lives with her insight and wisdom.

As the Sun was setting on February 9, 2024, so was Tia’s earthly journey, her spirit ascended to the Heavens, where God, her parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and other family and friends that preceded her in death were waiting to welcome her.

With her passing, Tia leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, forever etched in the hearts of her beloved husband, David; her devoted sister, Teresa McFarlin; her cherished brother, Kenneth Hayes; and her adoring nieces and nephew, Iyana, Kayla, and Zyair; her Aunt Martha Rea Bryant; her Uncle Donald “SunnyBoy” McFarlin. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Antoinette Hilliard, and a host of cousins, extended family members, and friends, all of whom were touched by her genuine kindness.

Tia’s memory will be cherished for her unparalleled ability to keep it real and straightforward. Her curiosity and remarkable memory made her a walking encyclopedia and family historian, ensuring that the stories of generations past would never be forgotten. Her spirit, as vibrant and talkative as ever, now dances among the stars. May her memory be a beacon of comfort and inspiration, guiding us through life's journey with grace, courage, and unwavering faith.

Funeral Service to honor her life will be held on Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at 11:30am, Perry J. Brown Funeral Home 909 E. Market St. Greensboro, NC 27401, in the Cassie Coote-Brown Memorial Chapel. Visitation 11am.

Burial will be at 2pm in the Salisbury National Cemetery, Salisbury, NC.