Obituaries

Rita English

Jul 28th, 2015

Rita English
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Rita English, 71, of South Yarmouth, Massachusetts, passed away on July 26, 2015 peacefully in her sleep after a courageous 40 year battle against MS.

Rita was born in Hartford, Connecticut on December 15, 1943. She graduated from Manchester High School in 1961.

Rita was married to the love of her life, Denis English on July 7, 1961, they were married 53 years.
Together they owned and operated a cottage colony in Dennisport, Massachusetts for several years.  Rita then decided to follow her true passion and became a chocolatier and successfully owned and operated Goodies By Gonci for many years.  She enjoyed cooking, cookbook writing, travelling and spending time with her friends and family.  She will be remembered for her love of Elvis Presley, junk food parties, winter picnics and her zest for life.  Rita was an inspiration to all and left a lasting impression on those who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Rita is survived by her husband, Denis, of 53 years; three children, Colleen E. DeGrilla and her husband Stephen; Kelly E. Walsh and her husband Edward and their 3 children, Rosemarie, Molly and Aidan, Brian English and his wife, Rose, her mother, Rita G. Lister, her brother, Albert Gonci and 2 sisters, Margaret D’Onofrio and Lori Guardo, her nieces, nephews, beloved dog, Kasey, and the rest of her family and friends.

Rita is preceded in death by her father, Anthony E. Gonci.

Friends and family are invited to call at the Hallett Funeral Home, 273 Station Ave., South Yarmouth, MA on Wednesday, July 29 from 4:00 – 7:00 PM.  The funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, July 30, 2015 in the Hallett Funeral Home.  Burial will follow the funeral service at Oak Ridge Cemetery in South Dennis on Route 134.
 


Guest Book

Joan (Carlson) Gimler
#7
Friday - Sep 11, 2015 12:00 am

I'm so sorry for the loss of Rita. She and I graduated together from MHS. I remember her most from 8th grade. She was a good friend. The last time I saw her was at our 45th class reunion. I sat next to her and she was in a wheel chair then. She was such a nice person and very accomplished.

Linda Mothersele
#6
Wednesday - Jul 29, 2015 12:00 am

Thinking of you all today and of my special cousin. Share your tears. laughter, and stories. She is not here physically but she is in our hearts and the stories and memories will keep her alive. Godspeed Rita- give our love to those who have welcomed you ...

Peggy Tufts
#5
Wednesday - Jul 29, 2015 12:00 am

Rita was like a second mom to me. I am so grateful to have known her. She always made me feel like part of her family. My fondest memories are getting together just before Christmas with all the girls and baking cookies! We had alot of laughs. I will miss her and her beautiful smile. Rest in Peace Rita, I love you.

Margaret Hastings
#4
Wednesday - Jul 29, 2015 12:00 am

So sorry for your loss, Kelly. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Joan & Mike Sheehan & family
#3
Tuesday - Jul 28, 2015 12:00 am

Rita was the bright light, in angel in all of our lives, with a quick joke, a beautiful laugh and a big smile. She always welcomed everyone with open arms. I see her loving spirit in her children, Colleen, Kelly and Brian, and her beautiful grandchildren, Rose, Molly and Aiden. The life she shared with you Danny, was strong, fun, beautiful and inspiring; a match made in heaven. You two were the epitome of the one-word couple, Rita/Danny. I know she is watching over all of you now. I hope you will feel her spirit and love and strength when you need it and even, when you least expect it. We are holding you all in our prayers. Much love and hugs.xoxoxoxo

Kathleen Wade
#2
Tuesday - Jul 28, 2015 12:00 am

So sorry to lose a dear aunt and a lifelong friend. Thinking of my uncle and cousins and all Rita's family. I will miss her very much.

LINDA MOTHERSELE
#1
Tuesday - Jul 28, 2015 12:00 am

I sit at home reading all of these lovely tributes to Rita and feel my sadness. We can't be with you tomorrow and Thursday but in my heart I will be. The Gonci family was blessed to have her in our lives and you all especially. She will always be part of you. Cherish your memories, share stories, cry and laugh together. I know she was so welcomed by her family in heaven and they are having their own reunion. My love to you all- I will always remember her smile and easy going manner. Love, Linda

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