Suzie Rodriguez posted a condolence

Wednesday, April 15, 2026

When I was ten years old, we lived in New York on Long Island. So we saw the family regularly. Rita and Paul were young marrieds, Paul was an artist, and they lived in Greenwich Village. Rita once took me for a weekend to the Village, and I've always remembered all the "unusual" people we encountered, and talk about art, and talk about things I didn't yet understand. It was my first brush with a counter-culture, and it marked me for life. Rita nd Paul also gave me presents at that time that were formative for me. I still have a book of Emily Dickenson poetry inscribed by Rita, and they gave me my first art book - an overview of Impressionism. Literature, poetry and art have been major interests and big joys in my life, and it's no surprise that I turned out to be a writer. I've always given Rita, and Paul too, credit for introducing me to the world that carried me along through life.

Rusty Rodriguez posted a condolence

Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Something that I have always loved about Aunt Rits is how she seemed to live in the moment with gusto and laughter. I think most people never realize just how short and precious this beautiful life is and how important it is to enjoy every moment and everyone we can. That was what I saw in Aunt Rita from the first time she ochordianed my cheeks! She loved life, people and fun, and she was one hell of a role model for me on how to live life. I hope heaven is prepared to learn a few lessons from her! Love, Rusty

Chris Vaccarella posted a condolence

Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Miss you darling! Rita was always happy, even when aggravated. She always saw the best people, friends, and family. She did not accept despondency. She was an astute business woman. Especially in 1970s Colorado. I'll always keep with me her smile, laughter, stories, and her presence. She was powerful. She is a Corker! A New Yorker! A special lady indeed. May her memory be a blessing. Chris Vaccarella, Lisa's husband.

Lisa Vaccarella uploaded photo(s)

Monday, April 13, 2026

How fortunate I have been to have my beautiful Aunt Rita in my life. The youngest of the amazing 4 Benson siblings. My mom Ida was the oldest. Vivacious, fun and loving are just a few words to describe my Aunt. Always greeting me with "Darling". Aunt Rita you certainly were a corker. I will forever treasure my last visit with you in Dec 2024. Rest in peace Aunt Rita❣️✡️

Ron Johnston-Rodriguez lit a candle

Friday, April 10, 2026

Aunt Rita's vitality, smile, and laughter highlights all my memories of her over the decades. My first memory of her was as a vibrant beautiful bride at her wedding (to Paul Richter), followed by weekend visits to Long Island N.Y. where she and her older sister Ida (my Mom) would sing, laugh, and cook up fragrant meals that anchored the day. They were in their 20's then! Rita loved pinching cheeks of her nieces and nephews and I loved watching when she would toss my baby brother high into the air, only to be scolded by Mom for throwing "too high". She had drive, business acumen, and perseverance. She could be easily enticed to sing a riveting rendition of "Standing On A Corner", the wacky haunting song created by and for the Bension sisters that is still performed by their descendants. When visiting, Rita loved to hear us joyously sing a little ditty that our Mom wrote for her that seems a fitting and celebratory memorial : "Rita's a corker, she's a New Yorker, Rita won't you take a bow!"

Frank H Ament posted a condolence

Saturday, April 4, 2026

I have many fond memories of Rita throughout the over 30 years I have known her. I'll never forget the first time I met her at a family gathering in her home in Green Mountain. She immediately made me feel as one of her family. Always positive, always smiling, always thoughtful, with an unmatched sense of humor. I am privileged to have known her. My sincere condolences to Anne, Jeff, Larree, Abby, Jack, and Coby. She will surely be missed.

The family of Rita Thomas uploaded a photo

Friday, April 3, 2026

Posts to the tribute of Rita Thomas