OBITUARY
Rita Della Penna
April 10, 1927 – February 11, 2021
Rita Della Penna, born April 10, 1927 in Casalbordino, Italy, passed peacefully on February 11, 2021 into the presence of our Lord. Rita came to the United States at age 10 through Ellis Island. She was a devout parishioner at Blessed Sacrament Church and a dedicated food demonstrator with Publix. She loved to share numerous stories and would frequently burst into song during Sunday family dinners. Rita was preceded in death by her loving husband, Ottavio Della Penna, as well as her deceased brother, Nicholas DiVincenzo.
Rita is survived by her son Michael Della Penna (Ellna), grandchildren , Michael Della Penna Jr. and Joseph Della Penna; and her son Christopher Della Penna (Carole), and grandchildren , Andrea Della Penna, Gabriel Della Penna, and Lillie Della Penna; 7 great-grandchildren ; and sister, Amelia Tomaselli. Rita was loved for her generous spirit, her love of family, and strong faith. Her many extended family and friends will cherish her memory.
A visitation for Rita will be held Saturday, February 20, 2021 from 2:00 - 3:30 PM at Garden Sanctuary Funeral Home, 7950 131 Street North, Seminole, FL 33776, followed by a funeral service from 3:30 - 4:00 PM. Flowers may be sent to Garden Sanctuary Funeral Home. Donations may be made in memory of Rita to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, 322 Eighth Avenue 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001.
FAMILY
- Christopher Della Penna (Carole), Children
- Michael Della Penna (Ellna), Children
- Amelia Tomaselli, Sister
- Andrea Della Penna, Grandchild
- Gabriel Della Penna, Grandchild
- Lillie Della Penna, Grandchild
- Michael Della Penna Jr, Grandchild
- Joseph Della Penna, Grandchild
- Ottavio Della Penna, Spouse (deceased)
- Nicholas DiVincenzo, Brother (deceased)
- Mrs. Della Penna also has 7 great grandchildren and many extended family and friends who will cherish her memory.
DONATIONS
- Alzheimer's Foundation of America
Services
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Visitation
Saturday, February 20, 2021
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Funeral Service
Saturday, February 20, 2021
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Committal Service
Saturday, February 20, 2021
Memories
Rita Della Penna
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYCarolyn Ramsey
February 20, 2021
Rita will always hold a very special place in the hearts of my kids and I. To them, she will always be Grandma Rita. Her big hearted enthusiasm for those she loved and arms wide open hugs will always be remembered and missed. 💗
FRANK AND CAROL DINICOLANTONIO
February 16, 2021
Dear, Mike and Chris I am so sorry for the loss of your mom. Rita was a loving and kind person that me and my wife had the privilege of knowing. She is now with the lord and we hope to see her again. God Bless Love Frank & Carol
Joseph Fotia
February 15, 2021
Dear Michael, Christopher, and the entire Della Penna Family:
My heartfelt condolence and prayers are with all of you on the passing of your very cherished loved one--your mom.
My best prayers are also with your mom.
Peace!
Sincerely,
Joseph M. Fotia,
Lockport, NY
Lisa Seward
February 15, 2021
I remember Rita from Lockport, New York and all the times she spent with my Aunt Ann and my mom, Flo.
They would share the stories and she also worked at a grocery store in NY before coming to Florida . She was always so joyful and helpful . She would Always treat you like family. She surely will be missed . I am sorry for your loss of your mom!
Rae Rhodes
February 14, 2021
So sorry for your loss. I have heard numerous stories of Rita and that she had a love of life. God bless your family at this time.
Patti Emmons
February 13, 2021
I smile every single time Ms Rita comes to mind. She was a beautiful woman inside and out who loved her family more than words can even express. I feel blessed to have known her. It was my honor and privilege to have had the pleasure to provide friendship and companionship to Ms Rita prior to going into a facility. I have yet to meet anyone like her. Very special beautiful woman. Rest In Peace sweet Rita
Ann Barry
February 13, 2021
Rita was one of the nicest people I ever met in my life she was always trying to feed me and teach me
Italian always had a smile on her face totally going to miss her so much. She could never stop talking about her boys how pround she was of them and the car she gave her grandson and when she got lost driving and gave it up. I will truly miss her stories there was so many.
Florinda Steinas (Varallo)
February 13, 2021
We had the best Sunday's get together with the Della Penna and Varallo families. There was good food, homemade wine, and lots of laughter!!! I will always remember Rita with love and affection♡🌹
Anne Marsh
February 12, 2021
Chris, Carol, Gabe and Lily, Rita will be missed. I remember that she always had her special pizzelles for the kids. Thinking of you guys. Anne, Jeff, Jamie and Pete