Rita Hegarty

Rita Grimshaw Hegarty, a former resident of the Bronx and most recently of Croton- on-Hudson, New York, passed away on October 21, 2013 at the age of 95. Rita was born on June 22, 1918 in the Bronx to the late August (Gus) and Grace (Lenihan) Grimshaw. She resided in the South and East Bronx during most of her life and in Whitehall, NY after she retired. She held an active position on the Chamber of Commerce in Whitehall. Rita was a graduate of Jane Addams High School for Academic Careers where she was trained as a Beautician. On June 30, 1940, she married William James Hegarty Jr. who was known as Bill. The couple was delighted to welcome four children during their marriage. Once Rita’s youngest child was in grammar school, she became a School Crossing Guard at St. Brendan’s School in the Bronx. Subsequently, she transferred with the same position to St Ann’s School where all four of her children were schooled. She was also President of the Rosary Society there. In her 50’s, she pursued a College degree and taught Kindergarten in District 9 in the South Bronx. Rita is survived by three of her children: Diane G. Hegarty, Janet H. Patterson (Frank) and William J Hegarty III known as Bill (Juana). She is also survived by her son-in-law Jeff Fisher and two very dear people whom she considered as her children: Allan and Janet Zeman. Additionally, she is survived by four grandchildren: Kim F. Mosey (Joe), Frank C, Patterson (Maria), Jillian D. Patterson and William J. Hegarty IV known as Billy. Three great grandchildren also survive her: Taylor L. Mosey, Ryan F. Mosey and Thomas X. Patterson. Rita’s sister-in-law, Grace Grimshaw and her children: Cheryl, Gloria and Roger survive her, as well. Rita was predeceased by her parents, her brother Roger, her husband Bill and most recently, on July 9, 2013, her daughter Gail H. Fisher. Family and friends may celebrate Rita’s life at the Edward F. Carter Funeral Home at 41 Grand Street in Croton- on- Hudson, NY on Friday, October 25, 2013 from 2PM-4PM and from 7PM-9PM. A funeral mass will be offered at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church at 381 North Highland Avenue in Ossining, NY on Saturday, October 26th at 11AM. A private cremation will follow. Contributions in Rita’s memory may be made to the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement in honor of St. Anthony at Graymoor, PO Box 301, Garrison, NY 10524 or to SkyView Rehabilitation and Nursing Home, Activities Department c/o Casey Caterino, 1280 Albany Post Road, Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520 where she resided and received her final care.