Patrick Clemens Rita

Patrick Rita, age 64, of Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, May 13, 2021, surrounded by his loving wife and adult children.  He succumbed to a year-long battle with glioblastoma brain cancer and he will sorely be missed by many.  Patrick was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, pastor and a very dear friend.

Patrick was born in Blue Island, Illinois on February 4, 1957, as part of a large Chicago Italian community.  His family then moved to Scottsdale, AZ, where Patrick attended Saguaro High School and then went on to graduate from Arizona State University.  He later returned to postgraduate work at Mission Seminary in Philadelphia (formerly Biblical Theological Seminary in Hatfield, PA) and obtained his Master's of Ministry degree there.  He was an active member and deacon of Sycamore Hill Church teaching Sunday School and running men’s advances for many years. In 2018, he became pastor of Brandywine Baptist Church in Chadds Ford and continued to pastor there until his passing.  He described this time in his life as what he always wanted his life to be.

His professional life included working for such companies as Lockheed Martin in Los Angeles, CA, to the Franklin Mint in Glenmoore, PA, to Kelley Benefits Services in Wilmington, DE to the Medical Society of Delaware in Newark, DE.  He loved to work and put his whole heart into everything that he did.  His contributions were numerous.

He is survived by his wife, Connie Byarley Rita; three children, Nicole, Andrew and Daniel Rita; his mother, Jacqueline Gaudio Rita; brother, Raymond Rita and his wife Wenche; sister, Linda Rita Paepke and her husband Owen, both of Scottsdale, AZ.  He's also survived by his little brother, Eddie Rita and his wife Beth of Show Low, AZ.  Extended family members still living include many aunts, uncles and cousins along with 10 nieces and nephews.  Deceased of the family include his father, Raymond Rita and his nephew, Eddie Rita, Jr.

His fervent love for God, God's Word, the teaching of God's Word and for his family, friends, congregants and co-workers was the greatest gift he gave to us all.  The enduring mark and imprint of his life and ministry will continue to be lived out in those touched by his life.  He will never be forgotten.

A memorial service will be at 1:00PM on Saturday, June 5, 2021 at Sycamore Hill Church, 505 School House Road, Hockessin, DE.  Rev. Jon Boulet will officiate.  Visitation and refreshments will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in Patrick's name to the Brandywine Baptist Church Mission Fund, 1463 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, PA  19317

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