Obituary published on Legacy.com by Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory (43rd St. Chapel) - Bradenton on Mar. 2, 2026.
Rita Louise Parsons, aged 78, was called home to the Lord on February 26, 2026, following an unforeseen car accident in
Sarasota, Florida. Born on August 28, 1947, in
Staten Island, New York, Rita was the beloved daughter of the late Ralph and Virginia Puntillo and a cherished sister to Virginia (Ginny) Indelicato.
Rita known for her infectious laughter and boundless generosity, graduated from New Dorp High School and dedicated her professional life to caring for others as a Hospital Lab Associate in the Microbiology department at St. Vincent's Hospital,
Staten Island, New York. Her commitment to her work and her colleagues was a testament to her compassionate spirit and her desire to make a difference in the world.
Faith played a central role in Rita's life. As a devout Christian, she lived her life embodying the virtues of her faith, spreading love, and joy to everyone she encountered. Rita's passion for life was evident in her many interests, which included horseback riding, cooking, playing games, dancing, singing, writing, and acting. She was a beacon of light in her community, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a word of encouragement.
She was a loving mother of Tony Puntillo. sister, aunt, stepmother, and step-grandmother, leaving behind a family that adored her. Rita's memory will be cherished by her sister Ginny; her niece and nephew, Dina and Rob and their children; her nephew Joseph and his children; her stepdaughter Cheryl and her son Jason; her stepdaughter Renee and brothers Will and Eric.
Rita's courage was as remarkable as her sense of humor. She faced life's challenges head-on, always with a smile, reminding us all of the love of Jesus Christ. As C.S. Lewis once said, "Courage, dear heart," and indeed, Rita's heart was filled with a courage that inspired everyone around her.
As we say farewell to Rita, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a journey completed with grace. She was a woman who not only brought laughter and kindness into our lives but also taught us the value of courage and generosity. Rita Louise Parsons will be profoundly missed, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
We take solace in the knowledge that Rita is now at peace, resting in the eternal embrace of her Savior. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and she is loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. As we honor her memory, let us hold fast to the love she shared and the wisdom she imparted. Rest in peace, dear Rita, until we meet again.
A visitation will take place on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, from 11AM-1PM with a service at 1PM at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West,
Bradenton, FL 34209. Burial will take place at Skyway Memorial Gardens 5200 US Highway 19,
Palmetto, FL 34221.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West,
Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.