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Obituary For Rita Brown
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
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Rita Faye was one of the few quiet, soft-spoken members of our family during family dinners and other gatherings. But her warm smile and pleasant disposition could easily fill the room. Her love for her family was unquestionable and unconditional.
I pray that God will continue to strengthen and comfort Aunt Nell and the entire family.
Mary Peeler
Praying for your family and offering our condolences. (Rosie & Courtney Lawrence & Lindsay & Dorthy Woods)
Words will never express the lost that I am feeling. Rita will be greatly missed. I will always remember her quiet and easy going spirit. She always had a smile ( like Aunt Nell) and her soft voice. Rita I will truly miss you. God had a vacant room and what a honor to be the one chosen to reside in it. Rita you have taken your flight to be with The Lord and now you are privileged to be with ALL of your loved ones that welcomed you to your final resting place. Rita RIP take your rest now. Cousin Jan
Was such a good childhood friend. Thankful for the childhood memories and friendship. My prayers are with the family in this season of grief, but know that we rejoice for the life she both loved and lived. Ellen Burris-Artis
I had the pleasure of being able to call Rita my friend we had some of the best conversations growing into young women you will always be considered my dear friend and forever in my thoughts and prayers friends forever. carol Davis Matthews
Through the years, Rita and I used to talk a lot and share, but as her responsibilities increased, her time decreased and we lost touch ... but as cousins who became friends... I truly regret that happening. Our conversations will forever be locked within my mind, and her warm smile will always be before me. I remember when she told me about her cancer - she never once complained, nor did her faith waiver. I saw how strong she was and I admired her courage. Our family has lost a kind, sweet loving member of our family, but I believe God in His mercy and promises will bring us back together when He comes to take us to His heavenly kingdom. Be strong Aunt Nell and family... God is still on the throne. Be encouraged in the Lord. Margie Oglesby Evett.
Rita was a kind and sweet person, always thinking of others.
she will be miss. I will keep the family in my prayers.
Dianne Belton Rock Hill SC
I had the pleasure of working with Rita on a year end project. She was always kind and considerate. My thoughts and prayers are with all of her family and friends. Heaven definitely gained an angel. Benita Shea, Alight Solutions.
Rita I will miss you dearly my friend, I think about the times we worked together we would bring each other lunch every night, those were some year's, I love you so much,RSP MY FRIEND I WILL SEE YOU IN HEAVEN AGAIN ONE DAY, YOUR DEAR FRIEND LUCILLE ROSS HOLMES
Rita I will miss you so much, we worked together for some year's, you are a very beautiful and sweet lady,RSP MY FRIEND
Ms. Rita I will miss you greatly! The 14 years that I had the pleasure of working along side of you and knowing you as a person are priceless. You were always the kindest most gentle soul to everyone! Praying for your family and those that you left a forever print on our hearts. Sherri Furr
In the past few months I had the pleasure of working with Rita and she would always have a smile, I admired her commitment in life and to be strong. She will be greatly missed. My condolences to Rita's family and friends. Vanessa Cruz, Alight Solutions Puerto Rico.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family during these trying times. Rita you will be sorely missed.
Monica Hickman Deluxe Corporation
I had the pleasure of working with Rita the past few months, she was a sweet, kind and hard working lady. She will be greatly missed! Gabriela Ieong, ON Canada
When thinking of Rita, I remember a supportive daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, niece, and cousin who loved her family. Thank God for the time she was here and the special memories we will forever treasure.
Nettie James (cousin) Gaffney SC
Your sweet, kind and gentle ways will be missed. Working with you was always a pleasure and I will treasure them always. In loving memory of you, I will always treasure the gift of you! Leverne Clifton, Mooresville, NC
I had the pleasure of working with Rita for the past 16 years. Her warm heart and sense of humor always made me smile. She will be missed! Catrina Murray; Charlotte, NC
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
