Rita Gregory (Giblin) Service Information

Rita Anne Gregory, age 76, passed peacefully on October 6, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved daughter of the late James and Rita (Barrett). Rita was a life-long resident of Philadelphia, spending the majority of her life with her family in Northeast Philadelphia. Rita was a proud graduate of Little Flower High School and earned a bachelor’s degree with maximus cum laude honors from LaSalle University. Her bachelor’s degree was a proud accomplishment for her, as that was during her adult life, after raising four children. That accomplishment led to her being able to work in an area that was a passion for her -- people, especially the older adult community. She worked for many years at the Philadelphia Corporation for the Aging, helping to connect needed resources for older adults in Philadelphia. Rita also became a resource to family and friends on how to identify and facilitate resources for older family members. 

Rita was a devoted wife and celebrated 56 years of marriage to her late husband Jerry Gregory, Sr. Rita was a dedicated and caring mother to Jerry (Karen), Kris (David), Jim, and Matt (Julia). Rita was an adoring Nana to Erin, Julia, Alyssa, Madelyn, and Grayson. Rita was a great friend and supportive sister to Suzanne and Eileen (Ed). 

Rita LOVED her family and spending time with them. There were annual family vacations to the Matador in Wildwood, Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, and Disney World. Rita also LOVED to host family gatherings. She was well known for making some great food and plenty of it! If you were smart, you were bringing a leftover container with you to any family function hosted by Rita. Even when it was more challenging for her to host family holiday meals, she would not give it up! She always wanted to have her home available, and it was never empty on holidays 

Retirement meant Rita was ready for many traveling adventures! She had quite a few cruises lined up for adventures with Jerry and also a trip to Hawaii! As the years went by, the travel narrowed to more local options and Rita was very happy to spend time at the shore. She loved going to the Casinos and always enjoyed and appreciated her traveling family companions. 

Rita was a passionate volunteer in her retirement, she became a volunteer for Brookline Lab Rescue in 2018. She completed home visits for potential adopters; she worked events supporting the rescue, and she delivered auction items with her late husband (Jerry). Being part of the rescue was an important and valued part of her life.

Relatives and friends are invited to visitation on Saturday October 14, 2023 from 10:30 to 11:30am at the Galzerano Funeral Home 9304 Old Bustleton Ave. Phila. PA 19115.

Donations would be appreciated in Rita’s memory to Brookline Labrador Rescue 

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