Angelarita Rossi

Angelarita Rossi peacefully passed away and entered the gates of heaven on February 5, 2025. She had made her home in Fort Myers, Florida, alongside her devoted husband, Mario, for the last 15 years, following 36 years of residence in Trumbull, Connecticut. Both of these places held deep significance in her life.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Angelarita deLancellotti was a gifted harpist, recognized as a child prodigy. At just 9 years old, she performed her first concert at Carnegie Chamber Music Hall in New York City, marking the start of a remarkable musical journey. By the age of 15, she was performing alongside her mother, Onelia deLancellotti, who was also a talented harpist.

In January 1955, Angelarita met the love of her life, Mario Rossi. In February 1958, during her junior year in college, she was invited to join the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra as their harpist, a position she held for two years. In the summer of 1960, she substituted for the harpist in the Broadway musical My Fair Lady and after her second performance, the conductor asked if she would be interested in taking on the role of harpist for the upcoming Broadway musical Camelot. She performed on Broadway until August of 1961.

Angelarita and Mario were married in January 1961 in the Chapel of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, sharing 64 years of love, laughter, and cherished memories. She lovingly chose motherhood over her career, and alongside Mario, they raised three children: Mark, Robèrta and Matthew Rossi. Angelarita was also a proud grandmother to four granddaughters and two grandsons.

For over 20 years, Angelarita and Mario were members of the Trumbull Gourmet Club, eating good food and drinking wine with their close-knit friends.

Known affectionately as Mimi, Cheech, and Mamma, Angelarita exuded style, grace, and warmth in all that she did. She had a deep love for music, theater, shopping, and cherished the time spent at the beach, where she found peace in shelling and watching the stunning Florida sunsets. Above all, her family was the center of her world.

She took immense joy in connecting with others, always spreading kindness and a smile. Her unwavering support and encouragement left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Heaven has certainly gained one heck of a harpist, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11 AM Monday, February 24, 2025 at Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33919. In lieu of flowers the family has asked to please make a donation to the American Heart Association in Angelarita's name at the link below.

https://www.heart.org/en/get-involved/ways-to-give