Rita Millione 1942-2026

Born in New Castle, Pa., Nov. 11, 1942, Rita was the daughter of the late Albert and Sophie Zarella.

Rita married Gene Millione of Croton Ave in New Castle. He preceded her in death in 1995.

Rita was a loving mother who enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. She especially enjoyed cooking at her son Geno’s bar, Nite Trax, in Hillsville. Her famous pasta fagiole, chicken noodle soup, lasagna, sauce, cavatelli and meatballs (filled with enough garlic to keep evil spirits away) were staples on his menu.

Rita could whip up a meal, appetizer or dessert in minutes and always made enough to feed an army. Her tradition is carried on by her granddaughter, Nicole Falasco, and daughter, Denise Barger. Both have also been blessed with Rita and her late mother’s baking ability.

Nite Trax continues to thrive to this day under the family legacy following Geno’s passing in 2020. Even in her grief of losing her son and parents, Rita continued to bestow her beautiful smile when speaking to customers about her pride in her late son.

Rita also loved dancing and could cut a rug with the best of them, especially with her daughter Tina, who was always willing to join her on the dance floor. She loved stopping at her daughter Cheryl and son-in-law Serge’s home, laughing with them over the jokes they told. She also enjoyed laughing uproariously with people she met throughout life.

Rita and her daughter Tammy were always up to saucy and humorous things they loved doing together. Rita loved playing bingo with her mother, daughters and sister, always using the old-fashioned chips and daubers and, of course, good luck charms.

Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life, and they loved her just as deeply in return.

Rita attended the former St. Lawrence Church, now Holy Spirit Parish, and was a firm believer in her Christian faith and God.

Rita is survived by her four daughters, Tina Mollenkopf (Bob Nestasie), Cheryl (Serge) Miller, Tammy Souders and Denise Barger; sister, Bonne Primavere (Gizzy); grandchildren, Nicole Falasco (Michael Guminski), Erica (Donald) Cleckley, David Bradley and Geno Millione; six great-grandchildren; her significant other, Richard Micco; and numerous nephews and nieces.

Rita will be reunited with those who preceded her in death, including her parents, husband, son and many other loved ones.

Per her wishes, a private blessing service will be held with immediate family, officiated by Father Aaron Kriss of Holy Spirit Parish.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ed & Don DeCarbo Funeral Home, 3000 Wilmington Road.

Please do not send flowers. Donations may be made in Rita’s memory to the American Cancer Society or a memorial tree.

(special notice)