RITA WHITE-MATHIS

On Tuesday, November 26, 1957, in New Bern, North Carolina, our beloved Rita Delores White-Mathis was born to the late Willie M. White and Mamie G. White. She was the youngest child and the only daughter, cherished by her three brothers: Anthony Q. White, Willie D. White (preceded her in death), and Frederick M. White (preceded her in death).

Rita was educated in the New Bern-Craven County school system and graduated from New Bern High School. She continued her education at Lenoir Community College, where she earned a Bachelor of Computer Science in computer engineering. Rita had a deep passion for technology—she loved programming and rebuilding computers.

In her mid-twenties, Rita became a devoted member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church, where she was baptized alongside her children. She was the proud and loving mother of four children: Shylrita K. White, Ivory Q. Russell-White, Qeturah A. McMiller, and Khristoma J. Russell-White (preceded her in death).

In 1998, Rita relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana, where she resided for the remainder of her life. On Tuesday, January 13, 2026, the Lord called her home at the age of 68.

Rita was a devoted woman of God. She loved reading, listening to gospel music, and singing praises. A faithful prayer warrior, Rita cherished spending time in God’s presence. Her unwavering faith, love, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In addition to her children, Rita leaves to cherish her memory a stepsister, Kirstie White; two nieces, Adelaide White and Camille Jones; five nephews, Eric White, Willie Jr. White, Marco White, Marlo White, and Antwan White; along with a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

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