Rita was a vibrant woman, possessing an inner strength matched with a commanding manner. She was a classic beauty with an engaging smile that charmed everyone. Compassion was central to her character and she treated all equally. Her inquisitiveness with everyone she met led to subsequent lively discussions. And her devotion to her loving husband Bill and their five children was the focus of her life.
Born in Dayton Ohio, moving to Millsboro Delaware, and then finally residing in Seneca and Greer South Carolina, interests occurred that would describe her life:
-Camping thru the USA with her family in a Nimrod enjoying nature and the great outdoors
-Cultivating extensive gardens with the joy of seeing what Mother Earth could offer – especially
tomatoes and potatoes
-Endless hours crabbing in the morning and fishing for flounder in the afternoon, prepared then for
an enjoyable feast fit for a queen
-Using her natural and creative talents she crafted beautiful baskets and needlepoints to bring art
that she shared with so many
-And her fierce competitiveness in a game of Scrabble or when we played “99” for dollars instead of
pennies
She was a realist with a positive view of life, had common sense, and an openness that her children and grandchildren inherited. The endless conversations coupled with her unique sense of humor will never be forgotten.
She is survived by her husband of 70 years, Bill, and her five beautiful children: Ellen Gysin (husband Clarence Pressley); Ann Wood (husband Chris, grandchildren Jennifer and Emily, great-grandchild Winifred); Mark Gysin (wife Debbie, grandchildren Kendall, Lindsey, Bradley, Taylor, great-grandchild Jack); Matthew Gysin (wife Linda, grandchildren Hannah and Jesse); Will
Gysin (wife Debbie and grandchild Davis); along with nieces, nephews, cousins and a circle of friends. She was preceded in death by her infant daughter, Mary Beth.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Saint Andrews Catholic Church in Clemson, SC at 10 am, Saturday April 13, followed by a reception. The internment will be held at Saint Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Seneca, SC at 1 pm.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Rita's honor to the charity of your choice.
