Rebecca W. Read

Rebecca W. Read, affectionately known as Rebecca, Nanny, Aunt Bec or Becky to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2024, in Greer, South Carolina. Born on September 1, 1939, in Gainesville, Florida, Rebecca's life was a tapestry of love, dedication, and service, woven through the 84 years she was blessed to enjoy on this earth. Rebecca was a woman of faith and incredible strength, whose selfless nature and loving heart left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She was a steadfast member of her church, where she found great solace and fellowship. She was a part of different congregations across the country through her life and travels, and was always willing to serve where and how she could. 

Family was the cornerstone of Rebecca's life. Predeceased by her husband Ralph of 57 years, her sister Ginger Grimes and brother Charles Rogers. She was a cherished mother to her son Steven Mitchell Read (Doneli), her daughter Melanie Ringlein, and her late son Marshall Read, who is survived by his wife Angie. Also survived by her sister Judy Graham. Rebecca's legacy extended to her loving grandchildren: Joshua Read (Ashley), Jessica Bellissimo (Jack), Jeremy and Rosa Read, Sarah Williams (Ryan), Ashley Ringlein, Zachary Ringlein (Rebecca), Candice Read, Christi Fuzia, and their families. She was also the proud great-grandmother to Cash, Oakley, Sunday, Maya, Dominic, Jolie, Lia, Rebecca, Chloe, Preston, Noah, Jasmine, Harper, Hayden, Alivia (Chris), Avery, Avontae, Almeida, Blaize, Joel, and Sutton. The joy of her life was further multiplied with the arrival of her great-great-grandchild, Luca. 

Rebecca lived a life that was rich in experiences, filled with moments that reflected her incredible capacity for love and her unwavering commitment to her family. She was an avid reader and a passionate fan of the Florida Gators, embodying a spirit of enthusiasm and loyalty that was contagious. Her home was a haven where generations gathered, stories were shared, and memories were made. She reveled in the chaos and beauty of a large family, managing it all with grace and a smile that could light up any room.

Rebecca's talents as a seamstress, organizer, and cook were renowned, and she took great joy in using these skills to the benefit of her family and community. Family gatherings were always accompanied by delicious meals, followed by the harmonious sounds of music, football and shared stories. Her hands, skilled with needle and thread, created beautiful garments that not only clothed her loved ones but also wrapped them in the tangible warmth of her love. Rebecca W. Read's legacy is a tapestry of lives she touched, lessons she taught, and love she shared. Her impact was profound and her absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, we take comfort in knowing that her spirit lives on in the hearts of her family and in the many lives she enriched. Her story is one of unwavering love, enduring faith, and the selfless service that defines a life well-lived.