Obituary of Rita Diane Ervin

In sorrow we share the peaceful passing of Rita Diane (Yates) Ervin, 81 of Winston Salem, NC on February 9, 2024. She was with her family in Pace, FL at the time of her passing. Rita was a wonderful daughter, sister, wife, and mother, yet her favorite role was being a much-loved Nana. 

Rita was born to the late B.C. and Myrtle (Bass) Yates on March 10, 1942, in West Point, GA. She lived her younger years in Lanett, AL. Her family moved to Greenville, SC where she graduated from Greenville High School and then pursued an associate degree.

She was married to Robert D. Ervin in March 1962. After traveling and serving in the US Navy they settled in Winston Salem, NC where they lived and raised their family for over 50 years. During these years Rita held a variety of employment positions, all with the common element of customer care and service.

Rita loved reading, crafts, community service and caring for her family. She was an excellent seamstress, making clothing, home decorations and many fun costumes for her family. Rita was a proud member and sister of the social, cultural, and service sorority Beta Sigma Phi International. She served in many roles and earned numerous awards throughout her 50 plus years of membership. She dedicated countless hours of service to her community and cultural growth of this sisterhood.

Rita is survived by her daughter Ryan Ervin (Michael) Conner, of Pace, FL and grandchildren Caitlyn Duffy (Jordan Abidor) of Memphis, TN and Garron Duffy of Atlanta, GA. She is also survived by her brother David (Denise) Yates of Greenville, SC and nephews Matthew (Kara) Yates, their children Hayden and Madelyn, and B. Christopher Yates.

Rita is preceded in death by her parents Mr. and Mrs. B.C. Yates. She was predeceased by her much-loved son, Rodney D. Ervin and husband Robert D. Ervin of Winston Salem, NC, both in 2012.

A graveside service will be held to honor the lives of both Rita Y Ervin as well Robert D Ervin on Friday , April 26, 2024 at 11:30 AM, at Barrancas National Cemetery, 1 Cemetary Rd Naval Air Station, Pensacola, FL 32508.

Rita and her family offer that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a valuable charity in your community or of your passion.