Rita McDowell

Rita A. McDowell, age 85 of New City, NY passed away on Thursday June 27, 2019 in New Port Richey, Florida. She was born and raised in the Bronx, NY to Michael and Elizabeth (Gallagher) Lennon. She had two loving brothers (Pat and Mike) and a sister Bridie (Rogan). Rita married her childhood sweetheart James McDowell (passed 1988) in a double wedding ceremony shared with her sister on May 30, 1953 at Sacred Heart in the Bronx.

Rita’s four children consider her not only a great mom, but a wonderful friend, confidant and an OK poker player. Theresa Maronpot (Dave), Bob Taylor (Denise), Jim (Cathy Brody) and Kevin (Eileen Lynch) were blessed to be the beneficiaries of her unconditional love, support and guidance throughout their lives.

Rita was the always delighted, energetic and caring “Nana” to fourteen lucky grandchildren (Kris, Ryan, Joey, Sean, Kelly, Jacqueline, Greg, Laura, Ryan, Michael, Christopher, Clare, John and Katie) as well as eight great grandchildren and 18 nieces and nephews.

Rita was a strong, independent woman who valued her many deep and lasting friendships. She possessed genuine empathy and was kind to everyone she encountered. She will be remembered for those qualities. Rita cherished the memories of her friends and good times at the New City American Legion and the Nanuet Senior Citizens Club.

Rita’s life will be remembered and celebrated at a wake on Monday 7/1/19 from 3-8 pm at Higgins Funeral Home located at 321 S. Main Street, New City (854-634-6110). Funeral Mass will be held at 11am on Tuesday 7/2/19 at St. Augustine’s Church (140 Maple Ave, New City). Following Mass, Rita will be laid to eternal rest alongside her husband at St Anthony’s Cemetery in Nanuet.

One of Nana Rita’s favorite sayings was “I love you up to God and down again”. Nana, we knew it. We felt embraced by your love. We thank God we had you here for as long as we did. We love you up to God and down again.