Rita M. (Pingitora-Tortorino) D’Ambra, 82, of Worcester formerly of Millbury, passed away on Friday, June 30, 2011 at home surrounded by her loving family. Rita’s husband of forty-two years, John E. D’Ambra, Sr. passed away on April 25, 1999.

She is survived by her son, John E. D’Ambra, Jr. of Brookfield; her daughter, Julie D’Ambra and her significant other, Ronald Ernenwein of Worcester; five grandchildren, Kayleigh Rosenburg, Justin Brigham, Tara D’Ambra, Georgia Brigham and Zachary D’Ambra; one great grandson, Jullian Rosenberg. She is predeceased by seven brothers and sisters.

Rita was born in Worcester, a daughter of the late Giuseppi and Rosaria (Rama) Pingitora. She lived in Millbury for thirty years and was also raised there by her aunt and uncle, Luigi & Maria Tortorino. She later returned to Worcester and has been here every since. Rita worked as a housekeeper for the Glavin Regional Center in Shrewsbury for 10 years before retiring in 1986. She was a member of St. Brigid’s Church, Millbury. She loved to gamble at Foxwood’s with her family and will be greatly missed by all that knew her.

A Memorial Mass for Rita will be held on Friday, July 8, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. in St. Brigid’s Church, 59 Main St., Millbury. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. There are no calling hours. MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to: Holy Trinity Hospice, 1183 Main St., Worcester, Ma. 01603.