Rita George Clarke, 72, of Hillsborough, NC joined the church triumphant on January 22, 2026, at her home with her husband of 40 years, Jeff, by her side. Rita was born October 31, 1953 to the late John Samuel George and Evelyn Mae Collins George at Francisco in rural Stokes County, NC . She was preceded in death by her sister and brother-in-law, Mary Erlene George Wood and husband Delbert; and by her brothers, Samuel Thomas “Tommy” George and John Melvin George.
In addition to her husband, Jeff Clarke, Rita is survived by her children: Jeffry Cameron Clarke II and partner Caroline Cress and George Zachary Clarke and husband Young Yun. She is also survived by sisters and brothers-in-law: Nellie (Lester) Overby and Glenda (Delana) Biggs. She is survived by three brothers and four sisters-in-law: Jerry (Wanda) George, Ira (Georgie) George, Robert (Shirley) George, and Mavis George. In addition, Jeff’s brothers: Michael and Donald (Sara) Clarke and sisters: Annabelle (Rupert) Gregory and Carolyn Clarke. Rita is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Rita was a graduate of Watts School of Nursing and served as registered nurse for 38 years at Duke Regional hospital, caring for many people over the course of her career. She loved to travel: visiting the national parks and spending time in Little River, SC. She and Jeff were snow birds in retirement, who belonged to a special community in Bonita Springs, FL. Rita was a beloved member of Union Grove United Methodist Church in Hillsborough for 35 years.
A funeral service will be held at Union Grove United Methodist Church, 6401 Union Grove Church Rd. Hillsborough, NC 27278 on February 8, 2026 at 1:00 PM. A covered dish will be served following the funeral. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Masonic Home for Children at Oxford: P.O. Box 820, Oxford, NC 27565.
Penni R Dameron planted 5 trees in memory of Rita George Clarke . - February 06, 2026
Jeff, You are in my prayers. Rita was a great lady, and amazing nurse. Penni
Rita was a great, funny classmate of mine throughout our Watts Hospital nursing course and for a few years at Durham Regional. MY heart goes out to her family and kids. She will be greatly missed.
Jeff what a shock to see Rita had passed.. I'm guessing she had something going on Prayers are with you and the family
So sorry for your loss. I share in your pain I have lost a sibling myself. Prayers for all the family.
Sandy
Jeff and family, I am so sorry to hear of Rita's passing. I'm sure the past few months have been difficult for you and the entire family. Please know that you've been in my prayers and will continue to be. Sincerely, Debra Hernandez
To all my cousin you have my sincere condolences. Hugs and ❤️
Jeff, I'm so sorry for your loss!!!! We have fond memories of you and Rita on our cruise! We are keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers!!!!❤️
Dear Jeff and Family,
We are saddened to hear of Rita's passing. I enjoyed hearing of your cross country adventures when our paths crossed at UGUMC. May God's Peace be with you and yours.
Dave and Beth Heilman
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.