Geneva (McKnight) Bitting

Torrington- Geneva Bitting, 86, passed away Friday, December 27, 2024, at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital, Torrington, CT

        Geneva was born in Bells, TN, on May 12, 1938, daughter of the late Bud and Alexis (Martin) McKnight and had been a Torrington resident the past 42 years. She was a retired Presser in the dry-cleaning industry. Geneva was an active member of Workman Memorial AME Zion Church, Torrington, serving as President of the Deaconess Board, Choir Director, and as a licensed Exhorter. President of the Hospitality Committee and organized many church dinner fundraisers.

        Geneva was truly a woman of God, always willing to lend a helping hand and assist anyone in need. Geneva loved to sing songs of praise, and was an admirer of Mahalia Jackson, even performing many of her spiritual hymns in concert for the community. Outside of Church, Geneva continued her passion for music as a member of the Silver Belles and Beaus and Salt and Pepper Choirs.

        Survivors include three children, Johnnie Pate and his wife, Kimberly, of Sarasota, FL, Anthony Bitting and his wife, Michele, of New Haven, and Brenda Johnson and her husband, The Rev. Kevin Johnson, of Torrington: 9 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Geneva was predeceased by Al Joseph Bitting; Daughter, Vera Alexine Spears; sisters, Rosetta Edwards, Rachel Pete; brothers, Marshall McKnight, Eugene McKnight; and Grandson, Tyreece Arnez Bitting.

        Funeral services will be held Friday, January 3, 2025, at 11:00a.m. at Workman Memorial AME Zion Church, 60 Brightwood Ave., Torrington. Burial will follow in Hillside Cemetery, Torrington. Friends may call Friday morning from 10:00am to 11:00a.m. directly at Church. Gleeson-Ryan Funeral Home, 258 Prospect St., Torrington, is in care of arrangements.

        At the request of the family, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Workman Memorial AME Zion Church, 60 Brightwood Ave., Torrington, CT 06790.

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