Obituary
The family of Rita Marie Wrigley of Largo, Florida is saddened to announce her passing on June 2, 2024 at the age of 90.
She is survived by her husband of 69 years, Robert, and her five children, Donna, Nancy, Linda, Betty-Lou (Gregory) and Rob (Shannon). She is also survived by ten grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
Marie was married and also graduated from The Children’s hospital school of Nursing in Boston in 1955. She used her nursing expertise to raise her children and to care for everyone she met.
She loved to travel, line dance and the Boston Red Sox. She was always active in the church. Her devotion to God was evident by the way she lived her life; full of love, grace and faithfulness.
Through her actions and words, she touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impact. She was a role model, not just for her children and grandchildren, but for all those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her laugh was contagious, her life was inspiring, she loved fiercely and was fiercely loved. She will be missed!
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Rita Marie Wrigley to support cancer research and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 or via jimmyfund.org/gift
Just a year and a half later, when my dad’s job transferred our family to Clearwater, FLA, it was with great sadness that we said goodbye to our friends. Marie hosted a going away party for us in her home, complete with a cable car cake, so that we would always remember our time together in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her kindness, love of others, sense of humor, firm guidance when needed, steady presence, and faith, will always be what I remember when I think of her with affection, love, and gratitude. My condolences to the entire Wrigley family. Much love to you all.
Lots of stories and things she said come up in my mind, nothing relevant to many people ....but I can still hear her voice… “I don’t remember you at the Ridgewood (house)pool!?" “And are you SURE you don’t want any Chowdah?” I loved that she (and your whole family) graciously welcomed me and my son, Quinn, into your lives and your holidays, etc. You could tell she truly loved ALL children. What a special woman! Quinn and I loved her very much.
One memory that sticks out the most was around 2007, maybe the first time we met. She asked about my parents, and I casually mentioned that my Mom had died about 9 years prior, at age 55. Most people just say “I’m sorry”, but Marie’s response was different. First a quick look of shock and horror, then a sincere wave of sympathy came over her face. She followed up by asking appropriate, kind questions about what had happened. Empathy like that is so rare to find in a person, it really doesn’t exist! She had so many excellent qualities, but her reaction that day, I'll always remember.
I’m so grateful to her for the experiences we shared. More grateful for her whole family, that she was there for them for 90 years! What an amazing life she led, a superb example to all, and she will be missed by so many. Thinking of Bob and all of you with lots of love.
Mrs. Wrigley was always so kind and thoughtful.
It seems that she had a fabulous life and raised a beautiful children.
Much love,
David and Cindy Barber
She & her family added a seat for me at the Ranchero functions, making me feel the love they shared as I had known them forever.
The love & caring will always be with you, Marie is your guardian angel as she was here on earth.
My sincerest condolences with prayers & love to all the family.
Marta ( Cookie) Vandervlis
Mother and son dance