Rita Joyce (Harris) Craven

Rita Joyce Harris Craven, 82, of Sanford went home to be with Jesus on Friday, March 27, 2026 at her residence.

Rita was born December 10, 1943 to the late Nelson and Lelia Harris in Guilford County. She was a faithful member of Hunt Springs Baptist Church in Sanford. In addition to her parents, Rita was preceded in death by her son, Junior Newby; several brothers and sisters.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband of 45 years, Ronald Nelson Craven of the home; a son, Dwight Newby; several grandchildren, extended family and church family.

A funeral service will be held Friday, April 3, 2026 at 2:00 PM at the J.C. Green and Sons Chapel, 122 W Main Street, Thomasville, NC 27360 with Dr. Wesley Thomas officiating. Burial will follow at Holly Hill Memorial Park in Thomasville. A visitation hour will be held starting at 1:00 PM at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hunt Spring Baptist Church, 1557 St. Andrews Church Road, Sanford, NC 27332.

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