Rita Lupinetti

1933 - 2025

Rita Lupinetti

November 20, 1933 - February 27, 2025

Rita Ann Lupinetti, 91, of Egg Harbor Township, was welcomed into the loving arms of the Lord on Thursday, February 27, surrounded by the warmth of those who cherished her. Born in Woodbury, NJ, Rita grew up in Gibbstown with three brothers and was a graduate of Paulsboro High School. She was the lead majorette, and it was there she met the love of her life, Albert Lupinetti. a saxophone player. Their story led them to San Antonio, TX, where they were married. While Al served in the Air Force at Lackland, Rita embraced life in San Antonio before relocating to Lexington, KY, where Al completed his engineering degree at the University of Kentucky. She worked for a local horse magazine and fell in love with their beauty, so much so, that some dear friends affectionately called her "Rio Rita." It was in Kentucky that their daughter, Andrea, was born. In 1959, the family returned to New Jersey, living in Parsippany and then Northfield as Al began a long career at the FAA. Shortly after returning, they welcomed their son, Martin. Rita's life was one of devotion to her family, her friends, her community and her faith. She remained faithful even after the tragic loss of her daughter Andrea in 1979 and the loss of Al in 2008. She is survived by her loving son, Martin, his wife Monica, and her two cherished grandchildren, Mya Andrea and Mateo, who brought endless joy to her life. Rita's passions were simple yet rich. She found joy in entertaining and shared many fun memories with her lifelong friends of Shepherd Circle and Shepherd Drive. She loved music, wine and an extra dry vodka martini. She and Al were early "foodies." She put passion into everything she prepared including her famous pound cake and Jewish apple cake that she often brought to others (minus a tasting slice). A woman of boundless kindness, Rita dedicated 1,000+ hours volunteering at Shore Memorial Hospital and later worked as a dental assistant for Dr. Leo Barone Dentistry. She enjoyed Notre Dame football (visiting there for a game), Army/Navy games and later in life became a huge Phillies fan watching games with her dear friend Rosalie and many others.Though born English, Rita was Italian at heart. She traveled to Italy and hosted relatives in her home on many occasions. She wanted desperately to speak the language; so much so that she often pretended; but mainly she extended millions of kisses and love ("Baci, Baci, Amore, Amore"). Rita was raised Methodist and her spiritual journey led her to the Catholic Church, where she further embraced her faith. She and Al were active members of St. Bernadette's choir for many years. She was a child of Jesus practicing empathy and kindness to the least of us. She had an open heart and believed in "living kindness." Her love, light and joy were boundless. Rita held a deep and abiding connection to rainbows, a symbol of God's promise and her everlasting bond with Andrea and Al. The day Andrea passed, Rita and Al saw a brilliant rainbow, a sign they carried with them forever. She lovingly signed every card,"With Rainbows of Love, Rita."

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, March 6, at 11 a.m., at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Linwood, followed by a luncheon to celebrate her beautiful life at Atlantic City Country Club at 12:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, Rita asked that you carry out an act of kindness in her name.

Adams-Perfect Funeral Homes, Inc.

1650 New Road

Northfield, NJ 08225 (609)641-0065