Rita Ruggiano

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL-Rita Ruggiano, a lady of light and joy, graced this world with her vibrant spirit from January 30, 1929, until she departed on November 15, 2024, at her residence. Born in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island, Rita's journey through life was defined by her unwavering vivacity and the warmth of her smile, which could brighten even the cloudiest day.

A devoted professional, Rita worked tirelessly as a secretary for the director of nursing at Women & Infants Hospital in Providence, where her dedication and cheerful demeanor were as remarkable as her meticulous attention to detail. She served there with grace for many years, embodying the very essence of kindness and commitment before she finally embraced the well-deserved rest of retirement. She and her late husband Pasco moved to Tennessee in 2005 to be near her daughter. 

Beyond her career, Rita was a passionate soul with a zest for life. She found joy in the rhythm of music, loved to dance, and often spent her days at the Cookeville Senior Citizens Center, where her laughter echoed like a sweet melody. Her faith was profound; she attended church regularly, finding solace and community among those who shared in her beliefs. Her intellectual spirit flourished as an avid reader and a crossword puzzle enthusiast, always seeking new ways to engage her mind.

Rita's legacy is deeply intertwined with her family, who were her proudest joys. She is survived by her beloved daughter and son-in-law, Lynn and Tyler Crum, of Cookeville, TN, along with their two children, Jacob and Amanda. The love she shared extended beyond her immediate family to many nieces and nephews and their families, all of whom carry a piece of her happy, full-of-life personality with them.

Rita's heart also held memories of family gone before her - her dear parents, Edward and Mary Lombardi DiGiulio; her sister, Anne Hawkins; and her brothers, Edward DiGiulio and Bernie DiGiulio. Together, they painted the canvas of her life with love and remembrance, living on in Rita’s cherished stories and fond recollections.

A visitation will be held on November 21, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Cookeville, TN, followed by a Mass beginning at 11:00 a.m.. In honoring her spirit, we gather to celebrate a life that radiated joy, courage, and unyielding love - a life forever etched in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her. Rita Ruggiano may have departed from this earthly realm, but her essence, her laughter, and her indomitable spirit will echo through the lives she touched, forever reminding us to embrace life with the same passion and joy she so effortlessly embodied.

Hooper, Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.