Dateline: Williamston, NC

It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of Mrs. Rita Cahoon Carnell, age 73, of Williamston, NC. Rita passed away peacefully early Monday morning April 20, 2026, at ECU palliative care in Greenville, NC.

Rita was born in Tyrell County on December 5, 1952 to Evelyn Cartwright Cahoon and Preston Cahoon. Rita later married her husband Joseph Carnell on May 27, 1989 and was married for 37 years. She worked for Makin Tracks for many years as a cashier. Rita loved spending time with her husband Joseph, her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She enjoyed reading, watching wrestling, and most of all her favorite was "Walker Texas Ranger".

A celebration of Rita's life will be held at 4:00 PM Friday, April 24, 2026 in the chapel of Walker Funeral Home, Williamston with Pastor Robbie Parnell officiating and providing the music.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home and other times at the home.

Rita was predeceased by her parents: Evelyn and Preston Cahoon and one grandchild, Brian Alligood. Survivors include her husband, Joseph Carnell, two daughters: Juanita Davenport (Delma), Rebecca Manning (Corey); one son, Ray Alligood (Charlotte); one brother, Randy Cahoon, and two sisters: Teresa Swain (George), Elaine Zimarino (Phil). Other survivors include thirteen grandchildren: Tyler Davenport, Nick Davenport (Michelle), Caleb Nestor, Preston Alligood (Ashley), Samantha Alligood, Landa Alligood, Everette Carnell, Jace Carnell, Malakai Manning, Jayvion Andrews, JoAnna Harrison, and Dustyn Schmelzla and eleven great grandchildren: Natalie Alligood, Cylis Alligood, Kylo Anderson, Kason Goss, T J Davenport, James Davenport, Maria Davenport, Luke Alligood, Madison Alligood, Hayden Jones, and Isla McGraw.

Online condolences may be directed to: www.walkerfh.net.

Walker Funeral Home, of Williamston, is honored to serve the Carnell family