Rita Marie Harris

Rita Marie Harris, 95, of Deltona, Florida, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026. She was born in Oneida, New York, on February 22, 1930.

Although born in Oneida, Rita grew up in Waterville, Maine. Coming from a long line of gifted performers, it was clear from an early age that Rita possessed remarkable natural talent. By the age of three, she could already sing and tap dance, delighting audiences as she performed alongside her mother at local bingo halls and churches.

Rita graduated from Winslow High School, where her talents continued to shine. In her senior year, she was crowned Miss Apple Annie Beauty Contest winner, a moment that reflected both her grace and stage presence.

Following college, Rita's life became one of adventure and accomplishment. She moved to Boston, where her beautiful voice quickly gained recognition. She was invited to join the Sam Kenton Orchestra as their lead singer and later performed with the Tommy Gerrett Orchestra as well as Les Brown and His Band of Renown.

While the stage held a special place in her heart, love became equally important to Rita. From that love came her first child, Donna. Motherhood led her to slow her entertainment career, a role she cherished deeply. She devoted herself to raising her children, Donna, James, and Thomas, finding great joy and fulfillment in being their mother.

As her children grew, Rita returned to her passion for music and enrolled at the Peabody Conservatory Institute. She went on to teach voice and music at Catonsville Community College before once again returning to professional performance. Rita headlined numerous productions, including the Edith Piaf Classic Review, Fiddler on the Roof, and South Pacific, among many others. She also produced a patriotic musical honoring veterans of World War II and the Korean War, a project that reflected her deep respect and gratitude for those who served.

Rita was truly one of a kind and touched countless lives through her talent, warmth, and faith. Those who knew her felt something special in her presence, a reflection of her deep love for the Lord Jesus Christ. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for the gift of this beautifully talented woman.
She is survived by her son, Thomas Harris; her grandchildren, Jeremiah, Elijah, and Angie; and her great-grandchildren, Corey, Tess, Beatrix, and Conrad.

Rita was joyfully welcomed into heaven by her children, James Harris III and Donna Marie Bishop.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at DeLand Memorial Gardens, located at 600 East Beresford Road, DeLand, Florida 32724.

In lieu of flowers, Rita's family has asked that donations be made in her name to your charity of choice.