Angela Rita Harkins

Born July 29, 1938 in Lusiana, Italy
Departed June 16, 2023 in Indian Harbour Beach, Florida

On June 16, 2023, Angela Rita Harkins, 84, joined her heavenly family after a brief illness. She was surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Lusiana, Italy on July 29, 1938 to Maria Sciessere and Placido Pozza, she was always called Rita having been named after St. Rita of Cascia, the Patron Saint of Impossible Causes who helps those in great need. She immigrated to the USA with her family in 1958 and lived in Dover Plains, New York. As she was a nurse in Italy, she continued her nursing career as a nurse’s aide at Harlem Valley Psychiatric Hospital until 1966.

On October 14, 1961, she married James F. Harkins of Dover Plains. During their marriage, they lived in many different locations throughout New York, Texas, Georgia and Florida. She continued to work while raising her children Thomas and Edward, taking jobs as a waitress, electronic components manufacturer, office administrator and product salesperson. While living in Hyde Park, New York, she became the first woman to volunteer for the Roosevelt Fire District.

Her last 7 years were spent at Zon Beachside Assisted Living facility in Indian Harbour Beach, Florida. It was here where Rita had a huge impact on both residents and staff. She was named “Zon Ambassador” and was instrumental in helping the residents acclimate to the Zon community and sharing her skills in making crafts. She once again found a purpose in caring and nurturing others as she had done her entire life. It was evident that Rita left her mark on anyone who knew her.

Rita is survived by her son Edward and his wife Megan; her grandchildren Christian and wife Tori, Carla and husband Jeremy; 6 great grandchildren Piper, Teagan, Luci, Cody, Clyde and Thomas; her sisters Lucia and Franca and several nieces and nephews.

Rita was predeceased by her husband James; her son Thomas; her parents Placido and Maria Pozza and her sister Amelia.

Her Funeral Mass will be on Friday, July 14, 2023 at 1:30 pm at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, 3050 North Highway A1A, Indialantic, Florida.