Rita E. Petosa

Rita E. Petosa, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on May 10, 1935, in Philadelphia to the late Margaret (Angelone) and Emidio Campellone, Rita was the youngest of ten children and grew up in a home filled with warmth and joy.

Rita attended Gratz High School, graduating with the class of 1953. She was a spirited cheerleader and an active member of Student Council, always eager to encourage her classmates and lend a helping hand. During her high school years, Rita worked as an elevator operator at the Philadelphia Courthouse, demonstrating her strong work ethic and commitment to her community even as a young woman. In her determination and resourcefulness, she would walk 18 blocks to work to save 10 cents, money she cherished for the simple joy of going dancing.

Rita had a lengthy and dedicated career working for M & R Advertising, where she was known for her reliability, kindness, and unwavering professionalism. She married the love of her life, Charles J. Petosa, with whom she shared over 58 happy years, until his passing in 2014.

Rita is survived by her devoted daughter, Natalie Petosa, and her loving son, Charles Petosa (the late Lisa), grandchildren, great-grandchildren, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. She was the proud grandmother of Maria Petosa-Lubaway (Dave) and Victoria Kita (Michael), and the adored great-grandmother of Harper and Charlotte, with a new great-grandson, baby boy Kita, soon to join the family. Her legacy of love, compassion, and perseverance will live on through her family and all who had the privilege to know her.

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing Friday, January 2, 2026 from 9:15-10:15 AM followed by her funeral Mass at 10:30 AM, both at Immaculate Conception BVM Church, 606 West Avenue, Jenkintown, PA. Her entombment will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org or Wounded Warrior Project support.woundedwarriorproject.org

Services entrusted to the Joseph J. McGoldrick Funeral Home, Jenkintown, PA. Condolences may be made by going to www.McGoldrickFH.com.