Anita M. Rimsite's Obituary
Anita M. Rimsite, 96, of Cinnaminson, NJ, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Cambridge Health Care in Moorestown. She was born on April 14, 1928, in Scranton, PA, to John and Mary Rimsite. A longtime resident of Stratford, NJ, Anita lived her final years surrounded by family in Cinnaminson.
Anita was the youngest of seven children, and tragically lost both of her parents by the time she was in eighth grade. She went to live with her sister, Marion Lewis, and her family in Collingswood, NJ, where she was raised with love and support. Anita’s strong family bonds and deep faith were the foundation of her life.
After graduating from Camden Catholic High School in 1946, where she was a varsity basketball player, Anita worked at RCA and became a member of the company's traveling softball team. She later moved to New York City, where she lived with two of her brothers, Tony and Vince, and pursued a career as a piano bar singer. However, her spiritual calling led her to a dramatic life change. In 1956, she entered the convent of St. Casimir’s Order, dedicating herself to the Lord.
Anita earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Marywood University in 1960 and went on to spend 27 years as a teacher in Catholic and public schools, most notably in Scranton, Philadelphia, and Stratford. Her passion for education deepened in her later years, particularly in the area of special education. She was deeply committed to her work with children with special needs, especially after the birth of her great-great-nephew, Danny, who was born with Down syndrome. Anita was a constant presence in Danny's life, teaching him to read, write, and play sports, and she became a guiding and nurturing force in his development. Danny affectionately called her "Tutu," a name she cherished.
Anita’s love for her family extended to her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews. She was particularly close to Danny, whom she called "most precious to me." Her unwavering faith was central to her life, and she spent her days praying for the well-being of her loved ones. She attended mass daily and was a dedicated volunteer at her church, impacting many lives with her generosity and compassion.
Anita was also an avid golfer, a Philadelphia sports fan, and a lover of the occasional afternoon trip to Atlantic City. However, her deepest joy came from her relationship with God and her devotion to family. She was a patient, kind, and loving figure who touched the hearts of everyone she met.
She is survived by her beloved niece, Madeline Horchak, and many great-nieces and nephews. Her life was a testament to faith, love, and service to others. Anita’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, especially in the hearts of her family and friends.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish-St. Luke Catholic Church, 55 Warwick Road, Stratford, NJ 08084. Anita’s Memorial Mass will follow at 11 a.m. Inurnment will take place at Calvary Cemetery, Cherry Hill.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the organization of your choice. To share your fondest memories of Anita, please visit www.givnish.com.
May Anita’s soul rest in eternal peace, and may her legacy of love, faith, and service continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.
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