Ryta D. Peace

            Ryta D. Peace (Bertolino), 66, of Leechburg, passed away on Monday, September 30, 2019. She was born April 22, 1953, daughter of the late Dominick and Mary Jane (McKrisky) Bertolino. Ryta lived most of her life in Leechburg and was of the Catholic faith. A true Taurus until the very end, Ryta went as stubbornly as she lived. Ryta dedicated her life to caring for special needs children as a speech pathologist for ARIN Intermediate Unit, Indiana, PA. She was passionate about helping others and always went above and beyond for the ones she loved. Writing an obituary for Ryta seems strange, because anyone who knew her knows how unforgettable she is. In the words of her favorite band, The Rolling Stones, “she’s a rainbow.” She is survived by her son, Nevada (Lindsay) Smith of Saratoga, New York; daughter, Liz Peace, of New Kensington; a granddaughter, Finley Smith of Saratoga, New York; her beloved dog, Roxy Peace, of Leechburg; and beloved cat, Purrtha Peace, of Leechburg; sisters Carla (George) Stefaniak and Bernie Bertolino; brothers Martin (Renee) Bertolino and Larry Bertolino; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Nicholas Smith; brother, Michael Bertolino; dog and beloved companion, Angel Peace.

            A gathering of family and friends will be held Friday from 5-7PM in the Duster Funeral Home, Inc. 347 E 10^th Ave, Tarentum, 724-224-1526. In lieu of flowers, Family suggests contributions to the Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pgh., PO Box 9024, Pgh., PA 15224, www.wcspittsburgh.org. VISIT: dusterfh.com