HAMPSTEAD — Rita Antoinette Citarelli, age 89, of Hampstead, N.C., passed away peacefully on Oct. 26, 2016, at Lower Cape Fear Hospice.
Rita was born in West Orange, N.J., to the late Nicholas DeGruccio and Lucy Donofrio DeGruccio. Also, predeceasing her was her loving and faithful husband of 67 years, Vincent.
Rita is survived by her three sons, Mark P. Citarelli (Laurie) of Hampstead, N.C., Robert A. Citarelli of Morristown, N.J., and David J. Citarelli (Glynis) of Amherst, N.H.; grandchildren, Curtis Citarelli (Carla), Marc Brandon Citarelli (Corinne), Nicole Alligood (Matt), Marissa Citarelli, Erica Citarelli, Mary C. Citarelli and Ann E. Citarelli; great grandchildren, Austin, Alexandria, Ashlyn, Logan and Haley.
Rita was a proud and loving wife, mother and grandmother. She loved to cook, especially Italian food, enjoyed playing solitaire, crossword puzzles, loved having dinner parties where family and friends could gather. Holidays were a special time for her having all her family together.
A Memorial Service will be held at All Saints Catholic Church, 18737 US-17 N., Hampstead, NC on Nov. 14, 2016 at 11:00 a.m.
