Rita J. Monteforte was born on October 18, 1941 to John & Ellen Johnson in Yonkers, New York and had two older brothers Johnny and Ed. She attended Lincoln High School graduating with honors in 1959. Rita became an Executive Secretary after graduating from Katharine Gibbs Secretarial School in New York City. She was married soon after to Rich Monteforte in 1961 and had two daughters June and Lynn. They moved across the country to Darien, Illinois in 1980 then to Mission Viejo in 1984. Rita became a real estate agent for a time, then worked in Mount of Olives church office while here in California. Rita enjoyed community work including the Jaycees in New York, Hospice volunteering in Illinois and Stephens ministry here at Mount of Olives. The role Rita enjoyed the most was taking care of her family, especially her grandsons Ryan and Andrew.

Rita went to our Lord on June 6, 2014 at the age of 72 surrounded by friends and family. While battling cancer over a long period, she never complained, kept a great attitude throughout, and was an inspiration to all of us. She died with the same strong principals that guided her throughout her life. Rita was a great Wife, Mother, Grandmother & Friend , a person you could count on. What you saw is what you got. We will miss Rita, but acknowledge that our temporary loss is our Lord Jesus' gain. We love you Rita. Make our Lord a good spaghetti dinner.