Rita Hess

It is with warm hearts and fond memories that we remember the vibrant life of Rita J. Hess, Born on September 4, 1932, in Revere, MA. Rita was the daughter of John and Marie Sbrizza. She was the loving wife of her late husband, James Hess, sharing an incredible 54 years of marriage filled with joy, affection, and companionship. She was a charismatic and resilient woman, whose infectious laughter and captivating spirit touched everyone she met.

Rita's career at John Hancock Mutual spanned an impressive 37 years before her retirement. Her dedication and hard work were evident in everything she did, a testament to her resilient nature. But it was her love for family and friends that truly defined her. A devoted wife, a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Rita's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of love, laughter, and shared memories.

Beyond her professional life, Rita was known for her loving spirit and her ability to bring people together. Rita found joy in the company of her family and friends, and her home in Revere, Massachusetts and enjoyed her winters in Boynton Beach, Florida. Rita was a long-standing member of the Winthrop Yacht Club, where her love for the water and gathering people together truly shone. She was an exceptional cook, an expert at crafting, and a natural entertainer. She had an innate ability to transform every event into a memorable experience and her community involvement was commendable.

She was a devoted member of Saint Anthony's in Revere, MA, where she served with grace and humility. Rita's faith was an essential part of her life, guiding her actions and decisions. She embodied the words of 1 Corinthians 16:14, "Let all that you do be done in love," living fully, making those around her smile, and giving selflessly to her community.

Rita is survived by her loving granddaughter, Renee Lavoie Carter, and her cherished great-grandchildren; Angelica Belo, Lucas Kalukiewicz, Edward Kalukiewicz, and James Jr. She is preceded in death by her parents, John and Marie Sbrizza, her devoted husband, James Hess, her dearly missed daughter, Donna Lavoie, her beloved grandson, James Sr., and her brothers Frank, Louis, and John Jr. Sbrizza.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 250 Revere St, Revere on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 10:00am (everyone directly to church). Relatives and friends are kindly invited. Interment Woodlawn Cemetery. We invite you to share your memories of Rita and upload photos to her memorial page, celebrating her life and preserving her precious memory for generations to come at www.buonfiglio.com

Rita's life was a testament to her strength and her unwavering love for her family and faith. She was a woman who lived life fully, embracing every moment with grace and gratitude. Her legacy will continue to inspire and guide us.