Rita Natalie Contestabile

Rita Natalie Contestabile, 101 years old, of Marietta, Georgia, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by the love of her family, on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. Her remarkable life was a testament to family, kindness, and unwavering love. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Rita was born on December 25, 1924, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Amedeo and Elisabetta Spognardi. She attended Schenley High School, where she received her education. On May 6, 1947, she married the love of her life, Dominic Contestabile, at Immaculate Conception Church in Pittsburgh, beginning a devoted partnership that would span 68 years.

Rita dedicated herself to her family as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and homemaker. She created a warm and welcoming home, where family gatherings, delicious meals, and cherished traditions brought generations together. Her kindness, faith, and generous spirit touched the lives of everyone who knew her, leaving a legacy of love that will continue through her family for years to come.

Rita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dominic; her cherished son, David; her parents, Amos and Elizabeth; her brother and sister-in-law, Ernest and Dorothy; and her precious grandmother, Christine. Because of the many blessings of her long life, there were undoubtedly many more loved ones waiting to welcome her home.

Rita is lovingly survived by her son, Bob, and his wife, Gwendolyn; her daughter, Carol; her five cherished grandchildren, Mark and his wife, Kristie, Donna, Matthew, and Sarah; and her two beloved great-grandchildren, Cole and Addison. She also leaves behind her five beloved nieces, Diane Wesner, Debbie McIntyre, Karen Trudeau, Maura Spardy, and Cheryl Spardi; her three nephews, Ernest Spardy and Jeffrey Spardy and Ed Contestabile; their spouses; and their children. Rita shared a special bond with each of them, and the love, laughter, and countless memories they created together brought her immeasurable joy throughout her life. She treasured every one of them dearly.

The Contestabile family extends its heartfelt gratitude to our beautiful angel, Chi Chi, whose loving care and devotion brought comfort and joy to Mom each day. We are also deeply grateful to Nakisha, Mom's kind, compassionate, and patient nurse with Agape Hospice Care, for the exceptional care she provided during Mom's final journey. Our sincere thanks also go to Matt Lacey, Mom's faithful minister, who visited her each week to pray with her, offering spiritual comfort, encouragement, and peace.

Visitation will be held at:

Kraeer Funeral Home

1655 North University Drive

Coral Springs, Florida. 33071

Wednesday, July 22, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.,

Funeral services will be held at:

Our Lady Queen of Heaven

1500 S. State Road 7

Noth Lauderdale, Florida. 30068

Monsignor George Puthusseril officiating.

Chapel Service: Thursday, July 23, 2026 12:00 p.m.

Burial will follow at Our Lady Queen of Heaven.

Arrangements are by Kraeer Funeral Home in Coral Springs, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Rita's memory. Supporting St. Jude was especially meaningful to Rita, as she and her mother faithfully made monthly donations to this cherished charity for many years.