September 5, 2021, 77, La Grange –

Edith Thornton Britt peacefully transitioned from her earthen vessel into the throne room of glory in the early hours of Sunday, September 5, 2021. Edith was born in Wayne County to the late Ivey Edmon Thornton and Annie Belle Jackson Thornton on February 19, 1944. In addition to her parents, Edith was preceded in death by her sister, Faye Pope; brothers, Bernice Thornton and Delmaray Thornton; and best friend, Ann Wright.

Born into a family of sharecroppers and farmers, Edith knew early on the value of a hard day’s work and a dollar earned. She was a firm believer in taking care of what you had and instilling in others that “cleanliness is free”. Everything about Edith, from the decor of her home to her personal dress and presentation, was articulately placed and always stylish.

When Edith was born, the love of her life was only five years old and was playing in the yard just on the other side of the fence at her home. W.L. and Edith were neighbors for several years growing up, but didn’t connect in romance until the early 60’s. The two formed a friendship and love that evolved into a marriage lasting 59 years, only separated by death.

Edith and W.L. gave their hearts to Christ early in their relationship and built their home and family upon the scripture from Joshua 24:15, “but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” No matter where their children were on the journey of life, they always encouraged them to be in God’s house where they would find His direction. Her mission in life was to teach her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren about the love of Jesus.

As much as Edith loved her children, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren stole her heart. The bonds between them could not be broken. She was their friend, encourager, advisor, and safe harbor. When things became too heavy to bear alone, the grandchildren knew that Grandma’s arms were open and so was the door to her home.

With a heart for children, Edith found much joy in teaching preschool children in Sunday School. She served in numerous capacities in the church over the years, to include Sunday School Teacher, Women’s Ministries President, Choir Member, and Decorator. The numerous jugs of barbecue sauce prepared for the church chicken plate sales can not be forgotten or overlooked. Though the recipe belonged to the church, W.L. and Edith had a special touch that added just the right ingredient that made it one of a kind.

Edith’s kitchen at home was always filled with glorious aromas from the many meals cooked there. She believed that nothing went together as well as family and food. Easter was the holiday most looked forward to as her whole family and extended family went to her house to eat and fellowship. Her immediate family would gather once monthly for a large meal, and the date and time were non-negotiable. Anyone who has eaten a slice of her split-layer cake and homemade frosting would understand that there was no objection made to sitting at the table when Edith said to.

With her world revolving around family and friends, Edith loved to socialize with those in her inner circle. W.L. and Edith had a routine Thursday crowd at their home for lunch and a long car ride. Frances, Lou, Matilda, Marie, and others would load up together and head off in one direction for a meal and the opposite direction for a drive. From Virginia to South Carolina, there isn’t much of the Eastern coast they haven’t traveled. Edith’s shopping trips with the girls, warm hugs with the grandkids, and weekly outings with friends were the moments that defined her life. Though she will be missed, she is with the One she loved most.

A service to honor the life of Edith Britt will be held Thursday morning, September 9, 2021, at 11 a.m. in the chapel of Rouse Funeral Home. Committal will follow at Fairview Cemetery in La Grange. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday evening at the funeral home.

Edith is survived by her sweetheart and companion of 59 years, William L. (W.L) Britt; children, Tony Britt (Darlene), Lisa Cartwright (Rocky), and Jeff Britt (Amy); grandchildren, Matt Cartwright (Ashley Windham), Ashley Cartwright (Tony), Hunter Britt, Jack Britt, Kaylen McLeod, Jacob Robbins (Olivia Jeffers), and Brandon Robbins (Nicole); great-grandchildren, Grayson Cartwright, Peyton Bradley, Brayden Jeffers, Makenna Jeffers, and Kinsley Robbins; as well as Tracy Bissette and Brandon Bizzell, who were like her own children and grandchildren; and very special friends, Lou Smith, Matilda Sykes, Marie Carter, and Frances Thornton.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.