Rita L. Casassa

Rita Casassa, 68, of Westfield, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on her own terms in the loving arms of her husband on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with a rare form of lung cancer. Born in Stafford, CT on January 26, 1957, Rita was the beloved daughter of Emil F. Liszewski and Eleanor F. Liszewski. She grew up with warmth, grace, and a deep love for family - values that would define her life. Rita married the love of her life, Andrew Casassa on November 5, 1983, with whom she shared just short of 42 beautiful years. Together they built a home filled with laughter, compassion, and devotion. She was a loving mother to Courtney, Brittany and Kailey. And "Gram" to Emma, Leo, Madison and Kelsey. Her greatest joy came from her family and the simple, meaningful moments they shared. Rita worked for many years as a special education teacher and daycare provider, professions that reflected her endlessly compassionate, patient, and nurturing spirit. It takes a truly caring heart to devote oneself to helping children learn, grow, and feel seen - and Rita did so with grace, humor, and unwavering kindness. Beyond her incredible devotion to others, Rita had an adventurous soul. She was a strong and avid hiker, proud to have completed 1,000 miles on the Appalachian Trail. Whether on a mountain path or a quiet forest walk, she found peace and strength in nature's beauty. Rita was also a devoted gardener and true plant guru. Her home and yard bloomed with life - a reflection of the care and attention she poured into everything and everyone she nurtured. Rita's courage, warmth, and generosity touched everyone who knew her. She faced every challenge with quiet strength and every day with gratitude and love. She will be remembered for her resilience, kindness, and gentle spirit. Even in her most difficult days, she met life with strength and grace that inspired everyone around her. She is survived by her husband Andrew Casassa, her daughter Courtney & son-in-law Sean Shanley, daughter Kailey & son-in-law Justin Parlow, sister Lori, brother-in-law Dan, nephew Jake & niece Kylei Koehler, brother Anthony & sister-in-law Gail Liszewski, beloved bonus son Austin Redden, her beloved grandkids Emma, Leo, Madison and Kelsey, sister-in-law Sue Casassa, niece Caitlin Sullivan, nephew Dylan Casassa, brother-in-law Carlton Holcomb, nephews Zack, Bart, and Arber Holcomb. She was predeceased by her parents Eleanor F. Liszewski and Emil F. Liszewski, and daughter Brittany Casassa. Celebrations of Rita's life: Wake calling hours will be at Carmon Funeral Home, 364 Salmon Brook St, Granby, CT 06035 on Friday, October 24, 2025 from 4:00-7:00PM and funeral will be held at St. Therese Church 120 W Granby Road, Granby, CT 06035 on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 10:00AM. Her light and love will forever guide those who were lucky enough to know her. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rita, please visit our floral store.