Antoinette Rita Scardina Neck, affectionately known as Rita to friends and family, departed this world peacefully at home on May 20, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on March 3, 1934, in Baton Rouge, LA, to Jack and Lena Monachello Scardina, Rita lived a full and vibrant life in the same city where she was born.
Rita was the beloved matriarch of a large and loving family. She is survived by her devoted children, Kristopher Neck (Renee), Keith Neck, Karl Neck, Kerry Neck (Kim), and Kathleen Verbois (Nathan). Her legacy continues through her siblings, Mary and Jackie Scardina, and her brother A.J. Scardina (Nettie), who will hold her memory in their hearts. Rita's joy was multiplied by her grandchildren, Billy and Kenny Neck, Brittany Picou (Derek), Trent Neck (Brandon), Alex Neck, Alaina Calmes, Brooklyn Bowers (Jacob), Darian Madere, Brandelyn Nagy, Zane, Lex, and Jensen Verbois. Her great-grandchildren, Kaylynn and Emilee Neck, Nash Henderson, Kynlee and Dawson Picou, Charles and James Rau, Bryler, Jay, and Kenzie Bowers, Baxter, and Stormy Harton, will grow up hearing stories of their great-grandmother's love and kindness. Rita was preceded in death by her infant son Kenneth Louis Neck, her loving husband Louis F. Neck, Jr., her parents, and her sister Gloria Denicola.
Throughout her life, Rita was a dedicated homemaker, a role she took great pride in. She created a warm and welcoming home where all were invited to share in her famous cooking and experience the comfort of her presence. Rita's love for cooking was only matched by her love for reading and traveling. She found joy in the pages of a good book and thrills in the adventures of travel, exploring new places.
Those who knew Rita would describe her as loving, generous, and selfless. She had a talent for making everyone feel special and valued, and her kindness knew no bounds. Rita's generosity extended beyond her family, touching the lives of many in her community.
Rita's life was one of quiet dedication and tireless devotion to her family. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of her universe, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Rita's guidance and wisdom have left an indelible mark on her family, and her spirit will live on in the values she instilled in them.
As we say goodbye to Rita, we celebrate a life that was rich in love and joy. Her memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. Rita's passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but her legacy of love and selflessness will endure.
Visitation will be held on Friday May 23, 2025, 4pm - 8pm at Central Funeral Home 9995 Hooper Rd Baton Rouge. A visitation will be held on Saturday May 24, 2025, 12pm - 1pm at St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church 13940 Greenwell Springs Rd with a mass of Christian burial to follow. Interment to follow at Resthaven Gardens of Memory 11817 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Louis, where they shared many happy years together.
Rita's life was a testament to the power of love and the importance of family. As we reflect on her journey, we are reminded to cherish the time we have with our loved ones, just as Rita did with every day she was given.
