Rita L. Ciaccio

Rita L. Ciaccio passed away peacefully on January 4, 2023 at exactly 99 and a half years old. She spent her final days surrounded by the strong women she helped raise and the men who lovingly saw her as an integral member of their lives and families.

Born on July 4, 1923 in Elizabeth, NJ, Rita was the youngest of seven children born to the late Baldassare and Vita Grillo who immigrated from Sicily. Known for being decisive, it came as no surprise that after just three dates she married the love of her life Pellegrino “Ben” Ciaccio (1921-2005). They spent their time together making beautiful memories with their group of friends “The Good Guys” in their beloved Peterstown neighborhood. Whether a church dance, tending to their gardens or spending time with their cherished extended family, there was never a shortage of opportunities to enjoy life.

Ben and Rita welcomed two daughters, Kathy and Rita, who were their pride and joy.  Both daughters had their own children and her dedication to family never wavered as she and Ben happily helped with every aspect of their granddaughters’ lives.  Whether playing on South 7th Street, spending time at the shore, cooking together or passing down her cookie recipes, Ben and Rita were integral members of their grandchildrens’ day to day.

Though lovingly referred to as “little bird”, Rita was the definition of small but mighty.  She instilled the values of hard work and that above all else, family comes first.  Rita lived her life with honor and kindness and taught her girls what it means to be a strong and steady force for those around you. In the words of her favorite crooner Frank Sinatra “I Did It My Way”.

Rita is survived by daughter Kathryn Campo (Steven), daughter Rita LaBrutto (Louis) as well as her grandchildren Lauren (Ben), Cristina, Jessica (Joe), Victoria and Jacqueline (Jon).  She is the proud great grandmother to Carter (5), Amelia (3) and Tristan (2) and will be missed by them as well as the countless other cherished family members she leaves behind.

Mass will be held 11AM on Monday, January 9th, 2023 at St. Anthony’s of Padua Church in Elizabeth, NJ. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Westfield, NJ.  The family will receive visitors from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Sunday, January 8, 2023 at Higgins & Bonner Funeral Home in Westfield, NJ.

In lieu of flowers the family welcomes donations in her name to St. Joseph’s School For The Blind (761 Summit Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07307). https://schoolfortheblind.org/ways-give

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