Rita A. Buonopane

Rita A. (Petrillo) Buonopane, of East Boston, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, at the age of 88.
Born on June 21, 1936, to the late Pasquale and Vincenza (DeLuca) Petrillo, Rita's life was a testament to the power of gentle compassion and unwavering family devotion. Rita was the cherished wife of the late Michael J. Buonopane, with whom she shared a lifetime of memories and a deep, enduring love. Together, they raised a beautiful family, instilling in their children the values of love and kindness that Rita held so dear.
She was a loving mother to David Buonopane and his late wife Mena of Peabody, Nancy Sanders and her husband Brian of East Boston, Rita Giangregorio and her husband Angelo of Revere, and was predeceased by her son Angelo Buonopane, whose wife Marie of Saugus remains a treasured part of the family.
A sister of unwavering support and affection, Rita is survived by Pasqualina "Patty" Petrillo of East Boston and was predeceased by her siblings Julia Theriault, Lucy Montalto, and Pasquale "Pat" Petrillo.
Rita's legacy continues through her seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who will carry forward her gentle spirit and loving heart. Each family gathering was brightened by her presence, and her guidance was a gentle force that shaped the lives of those she loved.
Family and friends will honor Rita's life by gathering at the Ruggiero Family Memorial Home, 971 Saratoga Street, East Boston, on Friday, June 20th from 8:30 to 10:30 A.M. before leaving in procession to St. Joseph - St. Lazarus Church, East Boston, for a funeral Mass celebrating her life at 11:00 A.M. Services will conclude with Rita being laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden.
In accordance with the family's wishes, please omit flowers. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the National Scleroderma Foundation, P.O. Box 411533, Boston, MA 02241-1533.