Rita B. "nee Marcolongo" Durso

DURSO

Rita B. Marcolongo, age 99, born on June 28, 1926 in Camden NJ, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, in Springfield, PA. Rita's life was marked by compassion, dedication, and a radiant warmth that touched everyone she encountered. She was a very dedicated mother to Janice and Steven. Also, a doting grandmother.

Rita had it hard as a child, helping her single mom raise her 4 younger siblings. But they all turned out successful in life and had beautiful families of their own. Over the years she had many interesting jobs. She was a substitute teacher for over a dozen years, working in the Catholic grade schools in the Philadelphia archdiocese.

She also worked in HR for Wanamaker's in Springfield for years and finally, during her later years, worked on weekends at the White Manor Country Club, as a server. She did this until the age of 82 and stopped driving by her choice at 91.

She stayed in her home in Springfield until the age of 90, then going into an apartment for the next 3 years, where she continued to add close friendships to her already long list. Her last 6 years were spent at Springfield Crossings Assisted Living. Rita will be remembered there for her beautiful smile that just captured the hearts of everyone. Her magnetism was infectious. They just loved her. We were told by almost everyone, staff and residents alike, that it was a very sad day when she passed on.

Rita was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, in Springfield, for over 50 years. She and her husband of more than 50 years, Albert, had a beautiful relationship. Together they had many close friends. They did so many things together. Whether it be entertaining in their home, (Rita loved giving parties), going on cruises, spending a month down in Boca Raton, Fla. each year, and spending several days at a time down in Ocean City, N.J., to name a few.

Above all Rita cherished her wonderful husband, Albert, her family, and close friendships. She will surely be missed but always have a special place in the hearts of those that knew and loved her.

Predeceased by her husband, Albert Durso, her grandson, David Spector, and her parents, Theresa Valeriano and Joseph Marcolongo. She is also predeceased by her 4 younger siblings, Marie, Louis, Joseph and Anthony.

Survived by her children, Janice Spector (Gary) and Steven Durso, her grandchildren, Jason, Megan, and Amy, and her three great-grandchildren, Hayden, Chloe, and David and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Relatives & friends are invited to her Viewing Thursday, November 20th, from 9:30 AM – 10:45 AM, followed by her Funeral Mass, 11:00 AM, ALL IN CHURCH, at Saint Francis of Assisi Parish, 136 Saxer Ave, Springfield, PA 19064.

Interment Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery.

Contributions in Rita's memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org

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