Rita (Sands) Riggieri

Rita A. (Sands) Riggieri, 93 a life-long Worcester resident passed away with the ones she loved gathered at her bedside, Saturday, December 15, 2018.  

Rita was born and raised in Worcester, one of three daughters to Rose “Helen” (Gibbons) Rourke. She was predeceased by her sisters Helen Meskowski and Joann Rizzutti. Rita worked as a nursing assistant for many years and later in life worked alongside family at Auntie Dot’s Pizza. 

Her husband Anthony A. Riggieri Sr passed away in 1991, and son Anthony A. Riggieri, Jr.  in 2003. She is survived by her four children, Paul J. Riggieri of North Grafton, Patricia M. Gremo and her husband Thomas of Grafton, Cheryl A. Ferguson and her husband Richard of Shrewsbury, Margaret M. DiGregorio and her husband Robert of Millbury;  nine grandchildren, Kimberly Gremo, Michelle Kelley, Stephanie Halacy, Jessica Walsh, Alicia and Ashley DiGregorio, Ryan, Dylan and Lauren Riggieri;  four great grandchildren,  Madison, Matthew, Keith and Emma; Nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. 

Rita was a devoted and loving wife, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed any activity that brought her family together. Whenever, someone mentioned a trip or travel Rita’s words were “I’ll go”.   She especially enjoyed cooking, baking for her family, travel with family and friends, playing cards with friends, the beach and weekend trips around New England.   She was a member of Our Lady of Loreto parish as well as a member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel’s Golden Age group and Tuesday Bocce league. Rita had a beautiful smile and sparkling blue eyes. 

The family wishes to thank the caring staff of Jewish Health Care who took impeccable care of Rita. A special thank you to the JHC Hospice nurses and aids who helped to make Rita’s last days comfortable and peaceful. 

A period of calling hours will be held Wednesday, December 19th from 9:00 am to 10:30 am in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St before departing in procession to Our Lady of Loreto Church, 37 Massasoit Road where her celebration of Christian burial mass will be held at 11:00 am.  Burial will follow in St John Cemetery.   In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in her name can be made to St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn.