Rita Linker McLain

Rita Linker McLain, 82, of Midland, peacefully passed away Friday, August 14, 2026, at Lake Park Nursing & Rehabilitation in Indian Trail, surrounded by her loved ones.

Rita was born November 8, 1943, in Midland, NC, to the late Zeb Vance Linker and Mary Narcissus Sloop Linker. She was their only child.

Rita was an elementary school teacher who devoted her career to educating and inspiring children. She was also a Girl Scout leader, an avid photographer, and a talented crafter. She loved volunteering at Bethel Church where she was a life long member. She was always willing to lend a helping hand to those around her.

Rita was a woman who never seemed to slow down and was always ready to help anyone who needed her. She was fiercely devoted to her grandchildren and did absolutely anything for them. She loved them with her whole heart and took great pride in being their “Mawmaw.” She enjoyed shopping, staying busy, and living life on her own terms. Independent and strong-willed, Rita had a personality that could fill a room. She loved to laugh, joke around, and, most of all, talk-always having a story to tell or something to say. Teaching was a huge part of who she was, and she devoted her entire career to making a difference in the lives of others. She was never one to sit still; there was always something to do, somewhere to go, or someone who needed her. Her love, laughter, strength, and unmistakable spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved aunts, Pauline Linker and Lessie Linker.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband, James Edward McLain of Midland, NC; daughter, Heather (Scott) Sizemore of Midland, NC; son, Christopher (Beth) McLain of Midland, NC; and grandchildren, Barett and Kolton Sizemore and Grace McLain.

Rita will lie in state Wednesday, August 19, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Hartsell Funeral Home, 13575 Broadway Avenue, Midland, for members of the community to pay their respects.

A celebration of life service will be held Saturday at 10:00 a.m. at Bethel Church, 12700 Idlebrook Road, Midland, with Pastor Jeremy Brackett officiating. The family will greet friends immediately following the service in Asbury Hall at Bethel Church.

Memorials may be made to Bethel church’s Bookbags of Love ministry or Children’s Ministry, 12700 Idlebrook Road, Midland, NC 28107.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Midland is serving the McLain family.