Rita Townsend

Rita Faye Bentley Townsend, age 60, of Lenoir passed away Sunday, February 24, 2019 at Caldwell UNC Healthcare.She was born in Ashe County on February 2, 1959 to Gladys Miller Bentley and the late William Franklin Bentley. Rita was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She was well loved by many in her community and was known for her love and care of children.She worked many years in the furniture industry.She was very creative, doing many crafts and artwork.She loved to sing about Jesus. In addition to her mother, Rita was survived by her husband, Marshall Townsend; three daughters, Linda Brown (Mike Kanupp) of Lenoir, Jenny Childress of Raleigh and Haley Bentley of the home; one son, David Altizer-Bentley of the home; three brothers, William Bentley (Mary), Ronnie Bentley (Brenda), and Lonnie Bentley (Kathy) all of Lenoir; two sisters, Ivey Bentley (Mike Flooroff) and Rena Cardwell (Randy) of Lenoir.Rita is also survived by two grandchildren, Jacob Teague and Courtney Teague. Services will be Friday, March 1, 2019, at 11:00 AM at Evans Chapel with Rev. Roy Kanupp and Rev. Benny Greene officiating.The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service.Burial will follow at 3:00 PM at the Miller Family cemetery in Ashe County. Memorials may be given to Shriners Hospitals for Children.