Rita R. Dambra

Rita R Dambra, 81, of Rochester, NY passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025.

Rita was a woman who lit up every room she entered—not with grandeur, but with kindness, warmth, and a deep, unwavering love for the people around her. Whether she was playing cards and laughing with friends and family, lending a helping hand at church or at the Women’s Auxiliary of the American Legion Post 468, Rita gave of herself fully, always.

A proud graduate of St. Mary’s Nursing School, Rita spent her career of 35 years caring for others as a dedicated nurse. She worked at several hospitals and care facilities throughout her career before she retired from Kirkhaven Nursing Home as a Nurse Manager in 1999.

She had a knack for bringing people together—with games, good food, and laughter—and it’s no surprise that some of the most cherished memories of her include music and dancing. Her 80th birthday party was a perfect reflection of her spirit: full of joy, a little bit of sass, and a legendary dance-off featuring “The Bump” and the “Cha Cha Slide.”

Rita is preceded in death by her loving parents, her daughter Kristina, and her grandson Jon Michael. Their memory was always close to her heart, and we take comfort knowing they are now together again.

She leaves behind her beloved husband, William “Bill” Dambra; sons Richard Kelly (Shannon), Daniel Kelly (Alisha), William “Billy” Dambra (Corey), and John Dambra (Ramona); her daughter Lucinda Kelly; grandchildren; Quinlan, Matthew, Nicholas, Solana, Nathan, Madelyn, Ava, and Hudson; and great-grandchildren Romeo and Leena—each of whom carries a piece of her heart and legacy.

Rita was deeply loved, and her absence is felt in every quiet corner of our days. But her laughter, her fierce loyalty, her selflessness, and her vibrant love live on in all of us. We miss her more than words can ever say.