Rita K. Ellington

Rita K. Ellington, 78, of Newport, North Carolina, passed away at her home on Tuesday, September 16, 2025.

A graveside service to honor Rita’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, September 20th at Amariah Garner Cemetery located at 550 Nine Foot Road in Newport. For those unable to attend, the service can be viewed through her obituary page on Munden Funeral Home’s website.

Rita, born October 22, 1946, was a native of Greensboro, NC but lived the majority of her life in Newport, NC.

Rita made her mark on the cosmetology industry early in life, helping to start and work at Greensboro School of Beauty with her beloved Nana and late Aunt. She then moved to Newport where she began to working part time as a cosmetology instructor at Carteret County Community College. She eventually moved into the position of Curriculum Area Coordinator and retired from the college after 25 plus years of teaching.

Rita also had a deep love for animals and treated dogs like family. Her most beloved pet was Casey, a handsome Maltipoo who loved his mama unconditionally.

Rita served as a volunteer and volunteer trainer for the NC Aquariums at Pine Knoll Shores for many years. She found joy in educating others about NC marine life, especially the otters. Teaching others was a passion and those who knew Rita well will remember her for her smile, quick wit and unwavering commitment to the joy of learning.

She was preceded in death by the love of her life and best friend, Tina Calandra and leaves behind many who will miss the vibrant, funny and kind person she could be.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the NC Aquariums in Rita’s memory

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.