I'll always remember her bright smile, and twinkling eyes. She had a very big heart, and was so generous towards her students. When Yvonne came to live with her, Rita was so thrilled to dress up her little princess! I'm sorry she struggled with her health in the end, and I know she's in a better place now. I wonder if she's playing BINGO in heaven...

Carrie, Lessie and Family God knows our pain when we lose a loved one. He lost His only son, Jesus, on the cross. While that may not take away your pain, it helps us realize that He does indeed know our loss and the pain it brings us. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Mother Eura L. Brooks St. James Primitive Baptist Church Mulberry, Florida

Losing a love one is one of the most difficult challenge we'll face in life. May each you find comfort in celebrating the time you had together and the wonderful memories you shared. May the Grace of God and the Comfort of the Holy spirit be with each of you. Lovette Brooks Brown and Family Omega. Georgia

To the Ford and Martin family my heart is going out to you.I pray that God will be with you at this time,try and remember the good days,

To the Family of Rita Martin, You have my sincere sympathy. I met Rita through my cousin Margaret Oliver and we use to have so much fun playing cards and the trips to the casino. I will miss her smiley face. She was such a nice person and she will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her. Susie

My sincere condolences to Rita's family. Rita was my very good friend at Martin Luther King School in Hartford for many years. We shared November 21st as our mutual birthday - sisters under the skin! We both taught fourth grade and together we took our students on many trips together, such as the Bronx Zoo, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the top of the World Trade Center and Washington, D.C. Our students had many exciting and meaningful experiences when

My sincere condolences to Rita's family. Rita was my very good friend at Martin Luther King School in Hartford for many years. We shared November 21st as our mutual birthday - sisters under the skin! We both taught fourth grade and together we took our students on many trips together, such as the Bronx Zoo, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the top of the World Trade Center and Washington, D.C. Our students had many exciting and meaningful experiences when we traveled together. Rita was always upbeat and happy. She was a clothes horse who always was dressed just right with hair and nails to match. I will truly miss knowing that she is in the world. However, I know she is right up in heaven. She was a good person who put her students first and loved her family. Sincerely, Patti Phelan

To Rita's family, Earth has no sorrow that heavan cannot heal. Rita you will be missed. You are now at a peaceful rest. Brenda, Ron, Alice, Patrick and Ernest, Jacksonville FL.