Obituary of Rita A. Caffaro-Magdalany
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Rita Anne Zito Caffaro-Magdalany, who left us on April 23, 2025, to return to our Father in Heaven.
Rita was a lifelong resident of the Bronx, New York, and later relocated to New Windsor, New York. She was born on May 9, 1941, in the Bronx to her loving parents, Vincenzo and Edna Zito. She was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, living her life in deep connection with the Godhead. Her faith was not merely a foundation; it was the very essence of her daily existence—her beloved church and Jesus Christ were not just a part of her life; they were her everything, guiding her actions and inspiring her interactions with others.
Rita found great joy and purpose in her career with Cornell University’s 4-H Program, where she worked for 15 years organizing clubs and teaching life skills to children. Her work reflected her natural affinity for nurturing and guiding young people.
Rita is survived by her husband, Robert Magdalany; her caring brother, Albert Zito; her children: EJ Caffaro and his wife, Shari; Scott Vincent (Vinny) Caffaro and his wife, Suzanne; Jody Caffaro; and June Caffaro. She was a proud grandmother to Charlé, EJ Jr., Janae, Johnny, Anthony, Krysta, Joey, Vinny, Santino, Gianna, Nina, Darrian, Stefan, and Jalissa, and a cherished great-grandmother to 23 great-grandchildren.
She now rests peacefully alongside her beloved parents, Vincenzo and Edna, as well as her cherished siblings: Jimmy, George, Danny, Anthony, and Clara. Together, they form a bond that transcends time, united in eternal tranquility.
Funeral services to celebrate Rita’s life will be held as follows:
● Memorial Wake: Friday, May 2, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
● Funeral Service: Friday, May 2, from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Location: 204 Spackenkill Rd, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
● Burial: Veterans Memorial Cemetery 111 Craigville Rd, Goshen, NY 10924 Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
In place of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Rita’s honor to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Missionary Fund or the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie in tribute to the cause she held dear.
Rita’s enduring legacy of unwavering faith, deep compassion, and boundless love will forever illuminate the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
