I was born Rita Elizabeth Reichenbach to my parents Elsa and William Reichenbach on City Island in the Bronx on February 18, 1933. I left earth on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.

On July 6, 1952 I married Ross Sherman French, the love of my life. Ross couldn't wait for me and left earth on December 16, 2009.

During my years on earth Ross and I lived in the firehouse and dispatched the firetrucks and ambulance for 10 years. I belonged to the Fire Auxiliary Unit 0374. My greatest time spent with The Bolton Legion Auxiliary was going to the VA Hospital in Albany at Christmas time and helping the wounded vets choose gifts and wrappings for their families. I enjoyed bowling for over 58 years and made many friends. I also made the 7-10 which is harder to do than bowl a 300.

I leave behind me with my seven grandchildren all the wonderful memories we shared together. Matthew (Lisa) French, Kristen (Mark) Jones, Scott (Gail) French, Jacquie (Logan) Jones, Jonathan (Kristen) French, Zachary (Alisa Huggins) French, and Ciera Mach.

I was also blessed with ten great grandchildren: Kendal and McKenna Jones, Conner, Zoey, and Summer French, Micah French, Jackson and Christian French, Caden Jones, and Aidan Huggins.

I also leave behind my sisters, Gail Babcock, Dawn DiCiccio, and Lois Robinson.

I will now join my sisters and brothers who left earth before me: Allen, Mona, David, Greta, Margaret, Lee, Richard, Robert, William, and Ralph.

Thank each and everyone who touched my life- it was great. It was filled with both love and sorrow along the way.

Most of all I had the two wonderful sons Ross and I created together who have held my life together when Ross left earth. Thank you Verne (Shelly) and Greg (Mary) for always being there for your mother. Your father would have been proud.

No viewing or funeral service per my request. No flowers. If you would like to donate in my memory either the Bolton Volunteer Fire Auxiliary, 5003 Lake Shore Drive, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, or the Bolton School Scholarship Fund, 26 Horicon Ave., Bolton Landing, NY 12814.

Thank you High Peaks Hospice for your care and support.