Rita Kay Gibb, 72, of North Carolina, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2026, at Catawba Valley Medical Center.

Born on June 17, 1954, Rita was the daughter of Charles Edwin Hawkins and Dollie Alberta Hawkins. She was a devoted Baptist whose quiet faith guided her through life.

Rita had a soft and joyful spirit. She loved the simple pleasures of beauty care, especially getting her hair and nails done ,she found peace in nature and sunshine. Music filled her days, and she held a special fondness for elephants, butterflies, and the color purple. These small joys reflected the gentle, loving heart she shared so freely with those around her.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, David Hawkins.

Rita is survived by her children: Richard Howard, Danny Lee Hill Jr., Samantha Duncan, Brock Hill, Heather Groos, and Courtney Skeens. She was also deeply loved by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will carry her warmth and kindness forward.

Rita’s light of her love of beauty, nature, and family, she will be missed by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort, and may she rest in the sunshine she so dearly loved.

Please sign the online guestbook at www.caringcremations.net. the Gibb family has entrusted arrangements to Caring Cremations Life Celebrations and Funerals at 828-855-3350.