Rita Sorrells Shadburn

Rita Sorrells Shadburn passed away Wednesday, January 19th at the age of 79. She was a loving wife, mother, Nana, and friend to so many. She was born in Cumming, GA but moved to Dahlonega in 2008. She loved her Nimblewill community and they loved her! Rita retired in 1996 to help raise her grandkids. Her grandkids were her biggest joy. Her face would light up as soon as they entered the room and they loved their Nana so much. She was one of their biggest cheerleaders.   

Rita was an active member of Beaver Ruin Baptist Church and had the prettiest tenor voice ever. She was also part of the Beaveretts. Rita was preceded in death by her parents Rev. Garland & Jeanette Sorrells, sister Shelby Westray. 

Rita loved her Lord Jesus Christ. She battled brain cancer for almost 3 months and had many struggles the last month. After a 9 day hospital stay, she came home last Saturday. When asked when she was lifting up her arm in the air if she was praising the Lord she said 'till I die' and that's exactly what she did. Her family and friends were able to witness a truly spiritual time with her and the Lord the day before she drew her last breath. She spoke of seeing angels and questioned why it was hard for people to believe. She sang Amazing Grace and said 'I can't wait'. She was surrounded by all her kids and grandkids for 2 days and was sang to and prayed for. Nana pulled all her family together one more time. She loved her family so much but I think they loved her even more. 

She is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Roger; sons Brett and wife Michelle Shadburn, Paul and wife Susan Shadburn; grandchildren Colton Shadburn, Josh Shadburn, Anna Grace Bolter, Benjamin Shadburn, Zachary Bolter, Isabella Butler, Albruey Melton, Jayla Melton. Sisters, Raye and husband Lynn Jennings, Judy and husband Jerry Holbrook, Janet and husband Lane Millwood. Brothers Doug and wife Melba Sorrells, Billy and wife Barbara Sorrells; brother-in-law Alton Westray; along with many other loving relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, January 22nd, 2022, at 2:00 PM in the chapel of Ingram Funeral Home with Rev. Michael Millwood, Rev. Scott Sorrells and Rev. Shad Faulkner officiating.  The interment will follow at Sawnee View Gardens.  The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday, January 21st, between the hours of 4 PM until 8:00 PM, and again on Saturday from 10 AM until the hour of service.

Ingram Funeral Home & Crematory, Cumming, Georgia in charge of arrangements.