February 21, 2022, 58, Goldsboro –

Rita Diane Sullivan Long, age 58, went to her Heavenly home Monday evening at her residence with her family by her side following a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Wayne County, she was the daughter of the late John Lawrence Sullivan and the late Virginia Lee Bryan Sullivan. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Gerald Sullivan, and a brother-in-law, Jerry Reaves.

Rita was the owner of Rita’s Place in Mount Olive and was well known for her love of animals and her care and generosity to people in her community. She was a big supporter of the SNAP program as well as providing a home for any animal in need. Rita was a member of Rhodes Friends Meeting where she served as the church pianist.

A service to celebrate Rita’s life will be held Thursday at 2:00 pm at Rhodes Friends Meeting with Rev. Frank Purvis and Rev. Richard Hill officiating. The family will greet friends at the church on Wednesday night from 6:00 until 9:00 pm.  

Rita is survived by her husband, Billy R. Long, Jr.; her children, Joseph Kyle Stuart and wife, Brooke; Jessica Nicole “Nikki” Long Thornton and husband, Paul; Hope Long Hill and husband, Simon; and Amanda Long Bill and husband, David; her sisters, Karen Sullivan Reaves, Jeanette Sullivan Bonthuis and husband, Tom; a brother, Wayne Sullivan and wife, Mary; her grandchildren, Kohlton, Kyler, Kambelle, Claire, Lindsey, Rachel, Logan, Noah, Turner, Reagan, and Cash; her two great grandchildren, Easton and Maverick; a special sister, Donna Westbrook; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, Rita’s wish was that contributions be made to care for the many rescued cats, dogs and horses that she devoted her life to caring for and rehabilitating.  Contributions can be directed to her daughter, Nikki Thornton, P.O. Box 167, Goldsboro, NC 27533.

Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home is serving the Long family and online condolences may be directed to www.shumate-faulk.com.