Rita M. Harrigan, age 80, of New Port Richey, FL, passed away at her home on September 18, 2016 under the care of Hospice.  She was born March 1, 1936 to Nicholas and Mary Parente in Philadelphia, PA.  She came to Florida in 1999 from Aldan, PA.  In her working years, Rita was a customer service representative for The Franklin Mint.  She was a member of the Fairway Springs Women’s Club.  She enjoyed sewing, knitting, and crocheting.  She also loved to be outside gardening or spending time at the beach.

Aside from her parents, Rita is preceded in death by her brothers, Charles and Louis.  She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 58 years, Robert; daughter, Donna; sons: Robert Jr. (Carol), Mark, and Matthew; sister, Maryann Bianco; sisters-in-law, Kathy and Jean; and grandchildren, Jennifer and Bobby.

A memorial mass is to be held for Rita at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church on Thursday, September 22, 2016 at 10:30am with lunch reception to follow at Michels & Lundquist Funeral Home from 12-2pm.  Inurnment will take place at FL National Cemetery in Bushnell on Friday September 23 at 11:30am.  In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Gulfside Hospice or to the Leukemia foundation of your choice in Rita’s name. Arrangements by Michels & Lundquist FH.