Rita Francis Martell Nee Simpson, of Pelham, New York, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2024, at the age of 78. Born in Manhattan to Clarence and Rita Simpson, she was the second of four children and raised in the Tolentine Parish of the Bronx. Rita attended Tolentine Elementary and High School before earning her Bachelor and Master of Fine Arts from the University of Alabama.
Rita cherished her childhood memories in Tolentine, where she first met her husband, Terry Martell, at the age of 12. They married at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan and began their journey together in State College, Pennsylvania, where Terry studied finance. Following his job opportunity at the University of Alabama, they moved to Tuscaloosa, where Rita balanced her studies and the joys of motherhood with the birth of their first child, Kathryn.
In 1981, the family moved to Pelham, where Rita dedicated herself to raising her three children. She became deeply involved in the community, working with the Pelham Children’s Theatre, where she shared her passion for theater and helped nurture the confidence and talents of many young performers. Rita also served as president of the Pelham Skating Club, coached little league softball, and contributed her time to the Pelham Arts Center. Her heart truly resided in Pelham, where she created a loving home for her family.
After more than 30 years of commitment to the Pelham Children’s Theatre, Rita retired in 2016. In her retirement, she enjoyed shopping, cherished visits from her grandchildren, and treasured time spent with her sister. A world traveler, she adored exploring destinations, with Tuscany, Italy, and the Outer Banks, North Carolina, among her favorites.
Rita will be remembered as a devoted caregiver, teacher, coach, and hostess. She had a gift for cooking and hosting gatherings, always opening her home to anyone in need. A true mother to all, her kindness and generosity touched the lives of many.
Rita is survived by her beloved husband, Terry; her children Kathryn Martell, Laura Kurtz, and Alex (Stephanie) Martell; and her four grandchildren, Brynn Rose Kurtz, Blake Ivy Kurtz, Terrence Ellis Martell, and Peter Hobbes Martell. She is also survived by her sister, Claire (Teddy) Martas; her brothers, Robert (Will Walter) Simpson and John Simpson; and is predeceased by her sister-in-law, Liz Cooke. Rita will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
A celebration of Rita’s life will be held at the Pelham Funeral Home, located at 64 Lincoln Avenue, Pelham, New York, on Wednesday, October 23, from 4 to 8 PM. A Funeral Mass will take place at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, located at 575 Fowler Avenue, Pelham Manor, New York, on Thursday, October 24, at 10:00 AM. Interment will be private. For more information or to leave a condolence, please visit www.pelhamfuneral.com.
Editor’s note: This obituary was provided by the Pelham Funeral Home.
