Rita J. Black

Rita Joan O’Neill Black, 90, died peacefully at home on November 9, 2022.

Born and raised in Jackson Heights, Queens, New York to the late Francis and Margaret O’Neill (nee Kirwan) she was a graduate of St. Jean Baptiste High School in Manhattan before going on to attend Fordham University. Rita’s desire to travel led her to a career as a Delta Stewardess, based in New Orleans, where she made eternal friendships. Rita met the love of her life, John Reid Black from Oklahoma, and the two were married in 1959. Traveling the world for oil exploration, they raised their family in Peru, Australia, Malaysia, and had dual residency in both Singapore and London, while maintaining a home base in Somerville, New Jersey. Rita continued to travel and enjoyed taking pictures of family and friends on adventures around the globe. She was happiest being with family, especially singing the old songs together.

Devastatingly, was preceded in death by her precious first born, Johnny Black in 1973, her beloved husband John Reid Black in 1994, and her cherished siblings, Veronica, Frank, Joe, and Vin.

Surviving are her loving children, Tigh Black of Maui, Kevin Black of Orlando , and Regina Skorge and husband Rob of Somerville, her cherished grandchildren, John and wife Katie, Robbie, and Tommy, as well as her great-grandson, Ben. Also grieving are many nephews, nieces, and extended family who will jovially remember her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00AM on Monday, November 21, 2022, at The Church of The Immaculate Conception, 35 Mountain Avenue, Somerville.

Family and friends are welcome to gather at the funeral home beginning at 10:00AM

Interment will follow at Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Somerville.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Rita’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Donate Online .