Born in the Bronx, she graduated high school and business school and worked as a bookkeeper for many years starting with National Cash Register in NYC and ending at RCC.
She was an original member of the Montebello Senior Club and held many offices, including President. She was a charter member of “Clowns R Us” volunteering at nursing homes and events for children and adults with special needs. As “Pee Wee”, she loved doing magic tricks and bringing joy to all who met her. One of her most memorable experiences was volunteering at the Paul Newman Camp for Chronically and Terminally Ill Children. Rita volunteered at St. Zita’s Home for Women for several years. She loved organizing parties, gardening and being a lifelong learner attending senior hostels around the country during her retirement. She was a born optimist and enjoyed life to its fullest. She was proud to receive the Distinguished Senior of the Year Award at RCC in 2010.
Rita was predeceased by her loving husband, Rick, in 1985. She is survived by her son Richard Ell (Annie), daughter Cathy Avallone, granddaughters Natalie Avallone (Clare), Nicole Avallone (Rebecca), Nancy Usha Avallone, Noreen Wishart (Randy); grandsons Matthew Ell (Carolina), Christopher Ell (Sumita), and five great-grandchildren.
Calling hours will be at Wanamaker and Carlough Funeral Home, 177 Rt. 59, Suffern on Monday, October 8th from 2-4 and 7-9. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday at 10:00 am at St. Boniface Church, 5 Willow Tree Rd., Monsey, NY. Burial will follow with a private family service at St. John’s Cemetery, Middle Village, Queens County, NY.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to United Hospice of Rockland, 11 Stokum Ln., New City, NY 10956 or a charity of your choice.
She will be missed by all those who knew and loved her.
