Rita Watson (Righi)

Rita Watson (Righi), 92, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2026, in Pinellas Park, Florida. She lived a vibrant and fulfilling life, marked by her devotion to family, a dedicated nursing career, and a love for travel, sports, and bingo.

Born on December 30, 1933, in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania to the late Alice and Roy Righi, Rita spent her early years on the Righi Turkey Farm in Plum Boro. She graduated from Plum High School in 1951 and went on to earn her nursing degree from The Presbyterian Hospital School of Nursing in 1954. Rita pursued a rewarding career in nursing, working in local doctors' offices before serving veterans at the VA Hospital in Aspinwall.

Also in 1954, Rita married Donald Watson, and together they raised two children, Kelley and Philip. She was an active participant in her children’s lives, contributing to PTA activities and supporting their school and sporting events. After retirement, Rita and Don became snowbirds, spending winters in the Rotonda West, Florida, area before eventually resettling there.

Rita’s adventurous spirit took her across the globe. She treasured her visit to Northern Italy to connect with her parents’ homeland and celebrated Reunification Day in Berlin. Her travels included cruises from Tahiti to Australia, the Caribbean, and Alaska, as well as extensive journeys throughout the United States.

She also enjoyed cross-stitching, reading, solving jigsaw puzzles, and she looked forward to playing bingo every Sunday at the Knights of Columbus.

Rita was an avid sports enthusiast who passionately supported the Pittsburgh Steelers and Tampa Bay Lightning. College football also held a special place in her heart, particularly when it came to cheering for the Oregon Ducks and Penn State Nittany Lions.

Rita is survived by her daughter Kelley Watson of Clearwater, Florida; her son Philip Watson and his wife Deborah of Keller, Texas; and her grandsons Joshua Watson of Phoenix, Arizona and Jacob Watson of Keller, Texas; in addition to several nieces and nephews. Rita was predeceased by her husband of 57 years Donald Watson; her sister Delores (Richard) Malone; her brother John (Susan) Righi; and her Yorkie, Gabby.

A memorial service will be held later this year in Pittsburgh.

In honor of Rita’s memory, donations may be made to Suncoast Hospice Foundation (2675 Tampa Rd., Palm Harbor, FL 34684) or Knights of Columbus Father Lopez Council #5737 (7177 58th St N., Pinellas Park, FL 33781).