Rita Kay Thurston

Rita Thurston passed away on June 2, 2026, at the age of 70.

Born on April 16, 1956, in Norfolk, Virginia, Rita was the daughter of Wayne Burden and Rubye Czech. She graduated from North Marion High School in 1974 and later earned her degree from Santa Fe Community College.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Lee Harrison and Jim Thurston; and her brother, Allen Burden.

She is survived by her children, Shawn Burden, Shelia (Alfredo) Castro, and Damien (Jessica) Guill; her sisters, Marie Hardwick, Amy Givens, Adrianne Cook, and Margie Czech; her stepmother, Sara Burden; her grandchildren, Aaliyah, Cruz, Vincent, Cesia, Nellie, and many other grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Rita's life journey took her from Virginia to Missouri, then to Florida, and later to Tennessee, where she spent many years before eventually returning to Florida. Over the course of seven decades, she experienced many chapters, challenges, and changes. Her passing marks the close of a life story that impacted the lives of family, friends, classmates, coworkers, and others who crossed her path throughout the years. Rita attended Anthony Baptist Church.

In accordance with her wishes, Rita will be cremated. A memorial service will be announced by the family at a later date.