Mrs. Rita Bell Freeman transitioned in spirit from this physical world on Sunday, September 22, 2024, surrounded by her family.

Born on August 7, 1935, to Jervey and Eva Dunning Williams of Harleyville, SC., Rita was the third of seven children.  She joined St. Paul AME Church at an early age and later accepted Christ as her personal Savior. Rita was an active member of   the choir and the Missionary Society. She attended St. George Colored School in St. George, SC, which is now the Rosenwald School.

Rita was preceded in death by all her siblings.

She was united in Holy matrimony to Mr. Hezekiah Berry, and together they had three children. Later in life, she married Carl Freeman, who preceded her in death.

Rita was employed at a needle manufacture in New York before returning to South Carolina, where she worked at a rug manufacture in St. George., SC.  After her mother fell ill, she dedicated herself to caregiving, not only for her mother but for many other family members.  Following the passing of her sister, she raised her two nephews, Dale and Daryl Williams.  Rita also fostered many children through the Department of Social Services.  After her parents' passing, she took over her family grocery store, continuing their legacy in the community.

She had a passion for cooking and baking, enjoyed gardening, and loved spending time at St. Paul Campground, where tent #9 was always a place for good food and laughter.  Rita cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, relishing every moment spent with them.

Rita leaves behind cherished memories shared with her children: Benjaman (Patricia) Berry, Rev. Rufus (Ida) Berry, Sr.  of Harleyville, SC and Edna (Willie) James of Holly Hill, SC; one sister-in-law, Willie Mae Williams of Florida, a special friend, Janet Lemon; six grandchildren, two bonus grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, a god daughter, Reta Berry and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.