Rita was raised in Massena, NY. In the early years of their marriage, Rita and Lonny lived in Friendship and Massena many times before finally settling in Allegany County. She worked in several different industries, including such places as: AVX Ceramics in Olean; Ames Department Store in Wellsville; and Jones Memorial Hospital in Wellsville, retiring in 2000. After retiring, she and Lonny wintered in Gulf Shores and Dolphin Island, AL. She enjoyed reading, fishing, crosswords, Sudoku, but most of all – she loved spending time with her family, whom she adored.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by: three daughters, Amber (Dennis) Stocum of Friendship, Michelle (Mike) Stocum of Corning, and Cammi (Robert) Granato of Auburn; a son, Ronny (Karina) Carlin of Friendship; twelve grandchildren, Jared, Shannon, Serena, Ashley, Michael, Quinn, Raychel, Kaiyia, Ronny Jr., Fred, Amanda, Kyle, and Kaleb; forty-one great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; a special-sister-in-law Geraldine “Cookie” Kirkey of Illinois; a special niece, Michele (Fernando) Garcia of Oceanside, CA;several nieces and nephews; and her beagle companion, John.
In addition to her parents, she was also predeceased by: a daughter, Kelly Sue Carlin; a brother, David Kirkey; a brother-in-law, Larry Carlin; and a beloved nephew, Kurt Kirkey.
As per Rita's request, there will be a private celebration of life with her family. Please consider memorial donations to the SPCA Serving Allegany County. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.