On September 28, 2020 Rhetta Rizzo (nee Petrone) passed peacefully from this world and into the Kingdom of the Lord.  A woman of strong Christian faith, she undoubtedly heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant” as she entered the gates of heaven.  Rhetta was 79 years old, though she’d likely only admit to being “21”, as she claimed for several decades.

Beloved wife of sixty years to Anthony,  loving mother to five children; Toni Silvestri (Bruce), Marc Rizzo (Renee), Adam Rizzo (Amelia), Jodi Wondolowski (Darren), and Nikki Schrope (Randy), devoted and “fun Gram” to eleven grandchildren, and great grandmother to two.

Born and raised in South Philadelphia, Rhetta graduated from Southern High School and shortly after married her high school sweetheart in 1960 before settling in Turnersville to raise their family. The quintessential happy homemaker, she often referred to her time spent raising her children as the best years of her life. She filled their house with love, laughter, and dogs. Lots and lots of dogs. While her favorite pastime was spoiling her grandkids, she also enjoyed days by the pool, all things patriotic, playing Skeeball on the boardwalk, boating, crabbing off their dock in Wildwood, making her famous crab gravy, and eating ice cream.  An avid crafter, Rhetta always found time to learn new skills and create cherished keepsakes for her family, whether it be sewing, ceramics, folk art painting, or stained glass pieces. Her kind heart and giving nature was evident in every aspect of her life. Simply put, to know her was to love her, and we did.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family Thursday 6:00 – 7:30 pm at the Egizi Funeral Home, 119 Ganttown Road, Washington Twp.  Funeral Service 7:30 pm

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Rhetta memory to the Alzheimer’s Association, 3 Eves Drive, Suite 310, Marlton, NJ 08053.