Rita Hood Obituary
Rita was born on August 3, 1941, in Everett, Massachusetts. She carried through life a rare combination of compassion, creativity, and quiet strength - traits that shaped how she loved and cared for those around her.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Hood; by grandson Teddy Lulis and granddaughter Christina Crowe; and by siblings Harold Green, Joyce Picariello, Barbara Carroll, and Patricia Mitchell.
Rita is survived by her children: Pamela Crowe-Skeirik, Kathleen Lulis Hynes, and Michael Crowe; her grandchildren Daniel Skeirik, Calvin Skeirik, Christopher Martinez, Kayleigh Crowe, and Kendra Crowe; and her brother Paul Green.
Rita's lifelong love of animals was one of her greatest passions. She rescued and cared for many creatures, including tortoises, giving them safe homes, nurturing care, and affection. In addition, she collected vintage teddy bears and hand-crafted her own bears, each one bearing her personal, loving touch.
Though she was gentle in demeanor, her commitment to any creature in need was fierce and unwavering. Her home was a sanctuary of tenderness and creativity.
Her warmth, artistry, and devotion to life will continue in the hearts of all who loved her.
A memorial service to celebrate Rita's life will be held at Hansen Mortuaries and Cemetery, 6500 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85254 on October 4th, 2025, at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family asks those who wish, donate to an animal rescue or shelter in Rita's memory.
Livestream Link: https://vimeo.com/event/5407079
Recorded Video Link: https://vimeo.com/1121947310
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
Andrew Golden
October 4, 2025
Keeping you in my daily prayers Aunt Rita. May you rest in eternal peace and joy with our Lord Jesus Christ.
How you can show support
Notify Me
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
6500 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Make a Donation
in Rita Hood's name
People and places connected with Rita
Recent Obituaries
How to support Rita's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Rita Hood's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
