Rita Giuffre Obituary

Rita Giuffre, 88, of Wyckoff, New Jersey, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her children, on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. She was born on November 11, 1936 in Astoria, New York to Louise and Rocco Valorosa. During her younger years, Rita worked as a print and runway model, and an Executive Secretary for Hotpoint in NYC. In 1954, Rita attended her cousin Chuck's Halloween party in New Jersey and her life was changed forever, having met Carmelo Giuffre. The two fell in love and on January 10, 1960 they were married in Manhattan. The couple moved to Garfield then Elmwood Park to start their family, eventually building their dream home in Franklin Lakes, where they continued to raise their four children. Her home was always filled with friends, relatives and guests, from near and far, and Rita always had a feast prepared. In addition to spending time with her husband, children, and eight grandchildren, she enjoyed traveling, cooking, playing tennis, and spending time with their many friends and family. While her children were in college, Rita went back to school and earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Ramapo College and a Master's degree from Montclair State University. She was the Director of Social Service at The Holland Christian Home in North Haledon, for many years and also volunteered her time and.

Talent helping those in need. She spent the last 15 years of her life in Wyckoff, living near her children and grandchildren, who loved to visit her eating endless amounts of food she always had prepared and experiencing her warm and self-less angelic nature. Her beauty and grace were only eclipsed by her infinite empathy and kindness. She was predeceased by her husband, Dr. Carmelo Giuffre (2018), her sister Anne Powell (2019), and her grand-dog, Ginny (2024). She is survived by her four children: Dr. Kenneth Giuffre (Marielle) , Dr. Michele Giuffre-Shore (Ronald), John Giuffre, and Michael Giuffre; eight grandchildren: Jacqueline (Grant), Aaron, Jennifer, John (Mary), Joseph, Lisa, Matthew, and Marc, and her precious great-granddaughter Elliette. She is also survived by her niece, nephews, cousins, and friends. Donations may be made in her honor to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (http://stjude.org).