Mary Margherita "Rita" Acree

Mary Margherita “Rita” Gleason Acree passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025, at the age of 75, surrounded by her loving family.

A devoted wife, mother and grandmother, Rita shared 53 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Jesse O’Neal “Neal” Acree, IV. A resident of Spartanburg, South Carolina for the past 30 years. She is survived by her husband, their sons John Brooks (Selena), Paul Franklin, and Thomas Gleason (Allison). Rita is also survived by her two sisters, Elizabeth Gleason and Loretta Gleason Keller (Hunter). She was predeceased by her parents and their son Harrison O’Neal (Leslie).

Rita’s greatest joy was her family. She cherished her seven grandchildren and her nieces and nephews, always finding ways to nurture, guide, and support them. A faithful Catholic, Rita lived her beliefs through service. She volunteered with Mobile Meals of Spartanburg, Spartanburg Soup Kitchen and working with the youth summer program, teaching by example the importance of caring for those most in need. Her generosity of spirit, gentle presence, and willingness to serve left a lasting impact on all who knew her.She will be remembered for her kind heart, her listening ear, and the way she made others feel truly seen and cared for. Her life was a shining example of selfless love, and her legacy will continue in the hearts of her family and friends.

A Celebration of Life Mass will be held at St Ignatius Catholic Church I Mobile Alabama on January 3, 2026 at 11 AM.

On January 9, 2026, a Memorial Mass will be held at Jesus Our Risen Savior Catholic Church in Spartanburg, SC at 1PM.

She will be laid to rest in a private internment with family at Magnolia Cemetery in Mobile, AL.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or your favorite charity.

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