Rita Patella

God saw she was getting tired and a cure was not to be,
so He put His arms around her and whispered, “come with me”
With tearful eyes we
watched her suffer and
saw her fade away,
although we loved her dearly we could not make her stay.
A golden heart stopped beating hard working hands to rest.
God broke our hearts
to prove to us
He only takes the best.

I miss you Mom

Rita you are the kindest person I have ever known in my life. You took me into your heart and home when my own mother had thrown me out. You never once made me feel as if I were unwanted or intruding – and that means a lot when my own mother did. I’ve often joked that you collected stray kids like other women collect stray cats. You would never think of saying “No” to someone in need. You taught me to cook, you taught me patience, you taught me kindness, and, most of all, you taught me to...

My Dear Rita,

I've searched my heart & in my soul, but all it brought were tears. Then I thought, how selfish could I be, in my thoughts of remembering you.

For it was your kindness and caring, that taught us all, to help in time of need.
It was your love and laughter that helped us all, with our bruised hearts & knees.
You were truly an inspiration as a mother and a friend...

Thank you for all you've done, until we meet again.

So now we hear the angels...

Rita, its Brookie- I am sorry i can not be there right now and tell you how much I love you. I just want you to know I am thankful for everything you have done for me and my mom. You were the only grandmother I ever knew and I just want to tell you that you are in my heart and thoughts always. I remember going to catskill game farm with you and Agie.I remember going horse back riding and our late night runs to McDonalds. You gave me every toy I ever wanted and you spoiled me with love and...

Dear John & Janis,
I was saddened to hear of your mother's passing. She was and will always be the best neighbor I ever had. She was a dear friend to me. Always ready to help me out, whether it be an illness that I had or one of my children. I hope that you are well. Remember Mr. Tree? I would love to hear from you. I still live on Old Lantern Road and will always remember your mom & you. God bless you, John & your family & you Janis. Love, Kathy

John and Janis , Your mom was truely the person all of us wished our moms would be like. She always had time to make you feel special, feel good about yourself and help you through those awkward times in life. I will always cheerish you Rita. Love Cissy

So many of my memories of growing up on Old Lantern Road include Rita. Her house was the place in the neighborhood where we were all always welcome, always accepted and always, always loved. Thanks "Mom". You will be missed and remembered always.