Rita A. Monica

Potsdam - Rita A. Monica, "Rockin Rita", 67, passed away peacefully Monday, August 23, 2010, at Canton-Potsdam Hospital, with the support and love of her family. Rita was born on May 12, 1943 in Nicholville, daughter of the late Edward and Dorothy (Brown) Monica. She attended Nicholville Grade School and graduated from St. Regis Falls High School. She worked at AMA in Saranac Lake and then at Elliott and Hutchins in Malone. For a while, she owned the Hilltop Hotel in Nicholville and then went to do clerical work at Clarkson College, retiring after 18 years. Rita was known throughout the area for her musical talents with the "Rockin Rita Band". She enjoyed entertaining for over 40 years and was still recognized and admired by many of her loyal followers. Rita also had a passion for cooking, with much of her pleasure obtained by making dinners for neighbors and friends. She is survived by four sisters, Mrs.Erma Webb of Winthrop, Mrs. Lila (Pete) Fiske of Brasher Falls, Mrs. Neva Cross of Bombay and Edna Monica of Nicholville; a sister in law, Pauline Monica of Lawrenceville; several nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and great great nieces and nephews. One brother, Marvel Monica and two nephews, predeceased her. Friends may call at the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop, Thursday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8. Her funeral service will be held Friday at 11 am at the funeral home with Rev. Lee Sweeney officiating. Burial will be in Hopkinton - Ft. Jackson Cemetery in Hopkinton. Those wishing to do so, please consider donations in her honor to the Potsdam Rescue Squad, Inc., P. O. Box 700, Potsdam, NY 13676. Condolences and memories can be shared with her family at hammillfh.com.