Rita Brocato Crifasi

Anna “Rita” Brocato Crifasi passed away peacefully at home on May 6th, 2026 at the remarkable age of 99. Born on April 19, 1927, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to Angelo and Evelyn Basso Brocato, she spent her entire life in the city she loved.

It was while she was pursuing her calling in nursing school that fate intervened in the most beautiful way — she met Dr. Rosario Samuel Crifasi, known to all who loved him as "Tootsie," a young and charming dentist. It was, by every account, love at first sight. Less than a year after that first meeting, they were married — and what followed was sixty years of unwavering devotion, laughter, and partnership.

Together, Rita and Tootsie explored the world — always returning home with hearts full of memories and stories to tell. But no adventure ever compared to the one they built together at home, surrounded by their family. Their two daughters, DeEtte and Renee were their pride and joy. In her final days, those who knew her best understood that Rita was at peace, and looking forward to reuniting with her Tootsie.

Rita was a devoted and active member of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church and said the rosary daily. She also served with distinction as a long-time member of the Women's Auxiliary to the Louisiana Dental Association, a role that reflected both her pride in Tootsie's profession and her genuine love of community.

Above all, it was her family that gave her life its deepest meaning. She loved each of them with a fierce devotion that left no doubt — they were her greatest joy, her proudest achievement, and her most treasured legacy.

Rita is survived by her two beloved daughters, Sara Renee Crowell, and Evelyn DeEtte Montalbano and her husband Dr. Michael Joseph Montalbano Jr.

She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Michael J. Montalbano III and his wife Allison, and Kerrie Renee Richmond and her husband, Ryan.

Her great-grandchildren — Evie and Stella Richmond and Mollie and Anna Montalbano — carry her spirit forward into the future, and in their laughter and love, Nana lives on.

Rita was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband Dr. Rosario Samuel "Tootsie" Crifasi; her devoted parents, Angelo and Evelyn Brocato; her son-in-law, Michael Crowell; and numerous close friends and family members.

Pallbearers will be Michael J. Montalbano III, Ryan J. Richmond, Jeff Miller, Peter Lawrence Miller, David Richardson and Karl Breithaupt. Honorary pallbearers are Peter Crifasi III, Sam Bongivanni, Peter Thomas Dazzio and Jerry Goss.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to her extraordinary caregivers — Rhonda McFarland, Ronda Bennet, Deborah Ford, and Lois Slaughter as well as Hospice of Baton Rouge - Lisa Comeaux and Ciera Barber who gave far more than care. They gave

their friendship, their hearts, and their presence, remaining by her side until the very end. The family is forever grateful.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, May 12th at 9am until services begin at 10am at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Resthaven Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice of Baton Rouge.