Maria R Ritacco

October 2, 2021

Maria Raquel Ritacco passed away at her home in Toms River on October 2, 2021. Born September 2, 1936, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Maria lived the early part of her life in Puerto Rico before moving to New York City as a child. She grew up on 123rd Street in Harlem surrounded by her immediate and extended family. She was the ninth of eleven children and was raised in a close-knit neighborhood full of laughter and many memories. After graduating high school, she earned her secretarial certificate and went on to work in several office settings, including a law firm in New York City. However, it was at Banker's Trust that she met the love of her life, George Ritacco. George was captivated by her beauty and kindness and within months they were married. There was nothing she wouldn’t do for George, and she was always by his side, until he passed in March of this year. Maria and George lived in Kearney until moving to Toms River in 1970 where they raised their four children, George, Lisa, Michael, and Robert. Maria gave every ounce of her being to her family. Always selfless, caring, and forgiving. All she wanted out of life was for those she cared for to be happy. Even the children she served lunch to as a cafeteria worker remember her as the nice lady who gave them an extra snack. She loved to cook, host family dinners, and dance. Her grandchildren all adored her and her love for them was boundless. Recently, her heart was broken when George passed. The only comfort from her passing is knowing that George was waiting for her with open arms, and they can be together again in peace. She is predeceased by both of her parents, Zoilo and Beatriz Zayas, her siblings Tonito, Mayo, Miguel, Luis, Vidita, Nando, Toti, and Tony and, her husband, George. She is survived by her children and their spouses, George and Danielle Ritacco; Lisa and Carmen Gagliano; Michael and Jodi Ritacco; and Robert and Stephanie Ritacco; eight grandchildren; Jack Ritacco, Olivia Ritacco, Elizabeth Ritacco, Marissa Gagliano, Angelina Gagliano, Jacob Ritacco, Eva Ritacco, and Roman Ritacco; as well as her siblings, Milagros Zayas and Maria Rivera, her brother and sister-in-law's, and countless nieces, nephews, and cousins. Visitation will be Friday 4-7 PM at Carmona-Bolen Home For Funerals, 412 Main St. Toms River, NJ 08753. The Family is requesting masks to be worn during the visitation for everyone’s safety. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you consider a donation in Maria’s name to the American Lung Association. www.lung.org.