Rita “Mama Rita” Rena Burton

Rita “Mama Rita” Rena Burton, age 57, of Cornelia, passed away on Sunday, February 19, 2023. 

Born on January 4, 1966, in Gainesville, she was a daughter of Phyllis Pruitt Burton and the late Arnold Burton. Mama Rita’s life-long passion was children, and she worked for many years in childcare, most recently with Foundation Academy. So, naturally she loved her family and was especially proud of her grandchildren. She was of the Baptist faith, and was an avid Goodwill shopper in her spare time. 

In addition to her mother, survivors include sons and daughter-in-law, Anthony Fournier (Ashley) of Homer, and Logan Fournier of Demorest; grandchildren, Lola Rena Fournier, Silas McCoy, and Malachi McCoy; brother and sister-in-law, Chuck Burton (Wendy) of Mt. Airy; sister and brother-in-law, Lisa Welborn (Don) of Clarkesville; nieces and nephews, Candace Carver (Jamie), Josh Welborn (Lydia), Zach Welborn, Chesney Burton, and Lexi Burton; and several great nieces and nephews. 

Funeral services are scheduled for 2 pm on Friday, February 24, 2023, in the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & Stewart with Rev. Danny O’Kelly officiating. Interment will follow at Friendly Mission Baptist Church Cemetery. 

The family will receive friends from 2 – 4 and 6 – 8 pm, on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at the funeral home. 

Flowers are accepted or donations may be made at Foundation Academy to aide with funeral expense. 

An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.mcgaheegriffinandstewart.com. 

McGahee-Griffin & Stewart Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.