Rita Sue Terracina

December 01, 1953 - March 11, 2021

Obituary For Rita Sue Terracina

Rita Sue Terracina, 67, of Raleigh NC, died peacefully on March 11, 2021. After a long, hard battle with cancer that started in 2011, she is now dancing in peace and freedom in Heaven. She was born in Port Arthur Texas, on December 1, 1953 to the late Lena and Andrew Champagne.

Rita went to school in Jefferson County Public School system. After graduating high school she attended Lamar University. She also worked hard to gain many IT certifications.

Rita married James Terracina on December 6, 1975. They celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary in 2020. Rita and James had a great, loving marriage. They enjoyed traveling and making frequent trips from the mountains to the coast. All of their favorite trips involved family. Rita lived life to the fullest and she loved her family with a fierce love. She was an active member of the church and had an unwavering faith. She loved dancing, gardening, horseback riding, movies with friends and family, tailgating and attending NC State games, crabbing, cajun food, anything outdoors, attending grandchildren’s events, and most importantly time with the family.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents and two of her brothers, Glendale and Russell Champagne of Texas .

She is survived by her spouse, James, two daughters and a son: Angelique (Scott) Hunter of Raleigh, NC, Alicia (Jonathan) Kimrey of Wilmington, NC, and Adam (Kathleen) Terracina of Raleigh, NC.

She is also survived by seven adoring grandchildren: Ryan and Ava Hunter, Shyanne and Graham Kimrey, and Julia, JJ, and Mason Terracina.

In addition, she is survived by seven siblings: Larry (Gwen) Champagne, Mary (Glen) Decuir, Linda (Frank) King, Albert (Pam) Champagne, Newman Champagne, Doug (Kayla) Champagne and Chris (Michelle) Champagne.

The Family is extremely thankful to God for giving Rita caring doctors and nurses all along her cancer journey; from Atlanta to Raleigh to Smithfield. We are also thankful for in-home care from Willie Mae, Lois, and Heartland Hospice and support from the St. Luke’s church community.

Services

18 Mar

Mass

02:00 PM - 03:00 PM

St. Luke the Evangelist 12333 Bayleaf Church Rd Raleigh, NC Get Directions »

by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

March 19, 2021

Crystal Nichols

I had the privilege of working with Rita at Misys many years ago She was more than a coworker, she was my friend. We shared many lunches together at Applebee's (where IHOP is now)where we talked about our families. She sure did love her family. We continued to keep in touch over the years. So glad that she is no longer in pain. She will be missed. "'He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."" ‭‭Revelation‬ ‭21:4‬ ‭
March 19, 2021

Vada Hayes

My deepest and sincere sympathy to Rita's family. I worked with Rita for many years and Rita always had such a beautiful smile and kind word for everyone. I hope her beautiful memories will sustain you during this sad time. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to know her and I admire her strength and faith during her long illness. I will always keep her memory close and appreciate my time with her.
March 19, 2021

Vada Hayes

My sympathy is with each member of Rita's family. We worked together for many years and Rita was so special and dedicated to her work and all of our customers. She was a joy to be with and always had that beautiful smile and kind words for everyone. I hope that your special memories will sustain you in your grief and loss. May God hold you in the palm of his hand. Know that others share your grief and memories. I will keep Rita in my heart and thank her for the joy she added to my life. Vada Hayes
March 18, 2021

Connie Gibbons

Sending lots of love and prayers for all of you as you grieve the loss of this beautiful wife and mother. I hold all the great memories of time spent together with Rita in my heart fondly. Rest now my sweet friend and know that you are loved!
March 16, 2021

Carole Trone

Angelique, My deepest condolences on the passing of your mother. There is no bond like the one between mother and daughter. You lived that every day in helping to care for her during her illness. My prayers are with you as you navigate this new chapter of life after such a profound loss!
March 16, 2021

Howard Fleming

James, Angelique, Alicia and Adam, There is a new star in heaven! What I remember most about dear Rita is her smile which was a reflection of the loving heart that lived below the surface. We first met each other in 1989 and remained friends for all these years. I am saddened to write this note but I am excited always about the future, Rita's future without pain and in the heavenly presence of our savior and James' future in continued service to the lord and others on this earth. Rita touched the lives of all she encountered, she was a blessing to me and my family! With much love to each of you, Howard Fleming
March 15, 2021

Joánne Kuszaj

James, Angelique, Alicia, & Adam and family members: we have great memories of Rita, lots of laughter and unforgettable faith. She had so much love for you and family & friends. We will always remember her positivity & faith. We won't be able to be at her Mass but will remember you all in prayer & thanksgiving for knowing Rita. Jim & Joánne Kuszaj
March 14, 2021

Kathy Hazlett

James, Angelique, Alicia & Adam - I know how strong your mom was in her long fight and I have never known anyone as strong in her faith and her ability to believe that God was always in control. She truly was an inspiration to everyone in her circle of life. You each carry that strength and faith within you because she taught you well. Whenever I think of Rita I think of her laugh and her absolute joy in life. You all have a wonderful guardian angel to guide you forever. Hugs & prayers sent to you all ❤️
March 14, 2021

Sandy Labus

My deepest sympathy to the whole family for the loss of a very loving and joyful lady. I will always remember what a loving and faithful friend she was . We had many joyful moments . I will always remember her talking about and sharing her love for her family Rita was a very devoted person to her Family, friends and faith. I pray that James and her children and grandchildren will hold on to the love she had for them. Rest in peace sweet Rita until we meet again. Sandy Labus
March 13, 2021

Pat Feldschau

Can't describe this beautiful woman without saying Faith love and family. She was my aunt and more than a friend to me. She and I were so close like a Sista! I love all of the family and pray for strength in the coming days!🙏🙏♥️Hugs and Rita I'll miss you and love you till we see each other again!🙏♥️🙏♥️💔💔
March 13, 2021

Brenda & Lawrence Sullivan

Aunt Rita was such a sweet and loving person. I will miss her so much. I enjoyed spending time with her when I got to and our special talks I will cherish forever! She was so special and was a warrior!! Prayers to Uncle James and all the family! Love you all! ❤️