Rita Thacker Faulk, age 75, passed away peacefully at her home on April 23, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on April 13, 1950, Rita was a lifelong resident of Mobile, Alabama, and lived a life rich in love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends.
She is preceded in death by her loving husband, John Faulk Jr.; her mother, Carlene Manning-Thacker; and her father, William Thacker.
Rita is survived by her three beloved sons, Brian, Kevin, and Jason Johnston; her stepson, Andrew Faulk, and his wife, Devan Sweeney. She was a proud grandmother to Abbie Johnston, Jakob Johnston, Madison Johnston, Blaine Johnston, Bryce Faulk, Olivia Faulk, and John Douglas Faulk, and step-grandmother to Scarlett and Clarissa Sweeney. Rita was also blessed with one precious great-granddaughter, Prestyn Blair Johnston. She is also survived by her dear sister, Joyce Thacker-Dees; her devoted aunt, Mildred Manning; and her sons’ half-sister, Courtney Johnston-Clay, who lovingly cared for Rita during her final month of home hospice care. Rita leaves behind many other cherished family members and friends whose lives she touched deeply.
Rita dedicated over 35 years of service to Winn-Dixie, where she was admired for her warm smile, strong work ethic, and kind heart. She built lasting friendships and was respected by all who had the privilege to know her. Rita was also a devoted member of the congregation at Luke 4:18 Fellowship Church and deeply valued the lasting friendships she formed there. The family wishes to acknowledge Virginia Rutledge as one of Rita’s most devoted congregants and treasured companions in faith.
Rita will be remembered for her love of gardening, crafting, and most of all, spending time with her family. Her strength, compassion, and infectious laughter left an indelible mark on everyone she met. She was known for her hilarious anecdotes and could keep you laughing for as long as you were in her company.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Courtney Johnston-Clay, Jennifer Warren, and Angelica of Gentiva Hospice Care for their exceptional love, care, and support. Their compassion brought comfort to Rita and all who loved her.
Pallbearers will be Gary “Spud” Wilkerson, Blaine Johnston, Andrew Faulk, Clayton Allen, Oscar Powell, and Kyle Johnston.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Radney’s Funeral Home, 3155 Dauphin Street, Mobile, Alabama 36606. Visitation will take place from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m., followed by a eulogy from Brother Dean Hopkins. Family and friends will gather to honor Rita’s memory and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.
Following the service, a procession will accompany Rita to her final resting place at Serenity Memorial Gardens, 8691 Old Pascagoula Road, Theodore, AL 36582, for a brief graveside committal.
The family gives special thanks to Otis Johnston and Kessler Weaver, Sr. for providing Rita’s escort from Radney’s to Serenity Gardens.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
He leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul…”
– Psalm 23:1–3
Rita will be deeply missed and forever loved.
