Lucy Denise Bite, 72, passed away on Friday, June 5, 2026, at SECU Hospice House.

Born on February 13, 1954, in Jefferson County, Texas, Denise was the daughter of the late Peter and Alda Bite.

Denise was a longtime member of Selma OFWB Church, where she faithfully served as a deacon. She had a servant’s heart and dedicated countless hours to volunteering with UNC Johnston Health, Meals on Wheels, and First Priority Rise, a special-needs church group that held a special place in her heart.

Family was the center of Denise’s life. She was a proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who cherished every opportunity to spend time with those she loved. Holidays were especially meaningful to her, and she delighted in making each family member feel special by preparing their favorite birthday dinner and creating handmade cards, each lovingly signed with her trademark “MamaMark” or “GrandmaMark” logo.

Denise was known for her independence, her forgiving spirit, and her unmistakable purple lipstick. She enjoyed fishing, watching hummingbirds, and spending time with her beloved cat, Maria, who was her faithful companion for 18 years. Her family will also fondly remember her sense of humor—including the ongoing joke that “she can’t drive.”

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Selma Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, from 1:00 p.m. until 1:50 p.m., at Parrish Funeral Home.

Denise is survived by her children, Billy Raines and wife Jennifer, and Christy Davis and husband Tony; grandchildren, Cierra Ricks and husband Tyler, Gracie Davis-Munoz and husband Brandon, Katlyn Raines, and Emily Raines (Cole); great-grandchildren, Juliet Raines and Brielle Ricks; brother, Bryan Bite; and sisters, Connie Bite, Pam Smith, and Julia Bite.

Denise’s kindness, generosity, unwavering love for her family, and joyful spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Priority Rise at Selma OFWB, PO Box 224, Selma, NC 27576.