Rita Vergati

Rita Vergati, a beloved sister, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully in Milford, CT, on Sunday, November 26th, 2023, a few months shy of her 90th birthday. Born in 1934 and the youngest of seven children, Rita's life was filled with the love of her family and a contagious sense of humor that enriched everyone around her.

Rita dearly loved her son Frank and spent many happy years raising him in the home of her sister Alma and brother-in-law Mike, who became surrogate parents to her and grandparents to Frank. Many years later when Frank returned from his music career out-of-state, Rita enjoyed a close relationship with him and his wife. 

In 1986, Rita wed John, with whom she shared a loving marriage. Together, they had a love of social dancing, a passion for travel, and a deep commitment to family. Rita and John enjoyed double dates with her sister Carmel and brother-in-law Harry, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Rita's family expanded with her marriage to John, welcoming three stepchildren, Linda, Jane, and John, and five step-grandchildren, Jennifer, Taylor, Crystal, JohnRobert, and Michael. She was a devoted grandmother, known affectionately as Nana.  She adored spending time with her grandchildren, whether hosting them in West Haven or spending holidays and milestones with them in their homes. 

Rita found as much joy in elaborate vacations as she did joking with her friends at work, catching up with the loving staff at her favorite hair salon, or enjoying a slice of Pepe’s Pizza with her family. Rita's presence was infectious she and set everyone at ease with her boisterous sense of humor. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever inspire us to cherish our families, nurture our friendships, and live life to the fullest.

Rita is preceded by parents Rudolph and Concetta, her son Frank, husband John, siblings Alma and husband Michael, Gilda and husband John, Carmel and husband Harry, Dominic and wife Anna, Edith, Albert and wife Anna, stepdaughter Linda, and nieces and nephews Ronald, John, and Patricia. 

She is survived by stepchildren Jane and husband Russell, and John and wife Barbara, grandchildren Jennifer, Taylor, Crystal, JohnRobert, and Michael, daughter-in-law Lori and grandson-in-law Kyle, and nieces and nephews William, Harry, Marie, Dominic, Robert, Brenda, and Linda who will remember her always with warmth and love. 

A Mass will be celebrated in St. Louis Church, 89 Bull Hill Lane, West Haven, CT on Saturday, May 4th, at 10am. 

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