Rita Keefe, age 81, of Farmington, NY, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 3, 2026. Born on July 1, 1944, Rita lived a vibrant, full life and brought immeasurable joy to everyone she met, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unbreakable community spirit.
A self-made woman, Rita spent her working years dedicated to office administration and bookkeeping. In her retirement, she could frequently be seen dishing out ice cream and smiles at Dari-Ann alongside her dear buddy, Helen. Always full of life, Rita famously ran for town clerk in the 1970s under the memorable campaign slogan, “Rally Around Rita.” True to those words, people rallied around her throughout her entire life, drawn irresistibly to her immense love and spirited personality. Among her favorite simple pleasures, Rita loved scratch-off lottery tickets and would happily choose a bundle of them over any other gift for Christmas or her birthday.
Rita is survived by her devoted brothers, Greg (Donald) and Patrick (Judy); her sister-in-law, Pamela; and her nephew, Dennis. She leaves behind her cherished circle of special friends, including Adriana, Jo, Ann, Kim, Paula, and all the Saturday breakfast girls, along with a large, loving family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends. She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Roy and Lillian, and her beloved brother, Francis.
Rita’s exceptional strength, kindness, humor, and deep faith will continue to live on vividly in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be dearly missed.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday June 18th 10 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Church (115 Maple Ave. Victor, NY). Interment will be private.
Rita was one of my best friends. I will love her forever. She was a joy to be around. She always called me pickle.
I don’t know anyone who didn’t love Rita. She was genuine, kind, fun, hard working & so special. Deepest sympathy to her family
Rita was my best friend since high school. What a trip!!! Lots of laughs, crazy times and some I cannot mention!!! I will miss her more than words can say, but Rita is in a better place now and
God Bless her. I love you my friend — until we meet again — BIG HUGS
Rita was my best friend since high school. What a trip!!! We had a lot of fun times – some of which I cannot mention!!! BUT I will miss her more than words can say. God Bless you my friend and sweet dreams until we meet again. Hugs Jo
I will forever keep you in my heart remembering the wonderful times we shared over the years. You will always be in my thoughts .
Rita will forever be in my heart. I will cherish the wonderful times we had together all these years. I will miss you my friend.
Greg, My sincere sympathy on your loss of Rita. I know the two of you had a special bond. I will always remember Rita’s laughter, and kind happy demeanor. She used to sing country songs to us when she would babysit, and I remember her playing the accordion. I enjoyed seeing her at reunions. I didn’t know how much she was suffering. I am glad she is at peace.
Greg, I was always so happy that you were able to live n Dad’s apartment. It was so comforting to know you were there. Wishing you peace. Hugs.
Dear Greg, Don, Patrick, Judy , Pam, Dennis and all the family, So very sorry to hear of Rita’s passing.
I was not able to come to her Funeral but have been thinking of all of you and keeping you in prayers.
Rita’s kindness, faith and sense of humor is a gift that I will always remember about her. The many visits I had with Rita and her Mom, Lillian will always be a treasured memory. So much fun , laughter and also sharing of faith and prayers. She is now reunited with all her loved ones and at peace. May the memories you have and the love you shared bring you strength during these days.