Rita H. McNamara, age 66, of Wilton, passed away on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, at her home. Cremation rites have been accorded. Burial of her cremated remains will take place at a later date in Oakdale Cemetery, Wilton. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Wilton Community School Food Pantry. Online condolences may be left at www.bentleyfuneralhome.com.
Rita was born on Dec. 1, 1959, the daughter of Ethan and Virginia (Lampson) Allen in Rock Island. She graduated from Sherrard High School with the Class of 1977. Rita married Bob McNamara on April 16, 1988.
Rita was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose life was defined by love, generosity, and family. She was a homemaker while her children were young, dedicating herself to raising her family. When her children were older, she began a career she deeply enjoyed, serving for 14 years as the preschool special education bus driver for Wilton Community School.
Rita found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved fishing, trying her luck at casino slot machines, and knitting. One of her greatest joys was knitting blankets for friends and family, each one made with love. Cooking was another way she expressed her love, and she was especially well known within her family for her beef stew, homemade spaghetti sauce, and her beloved cream puff cake.
Above all else, Rita’s family was the center of her life. She cherished weekend family trips, time spent together at home, and creating memories around the table. Her love for her family was unconditional, and it guided everything she did.
Rita will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Bob; four children, Chris (Jill) McNamara of West Liberty, Ashleigh (Alex) Taylor, Chelsea McNamara and Adam McNamara, all of Wilton; four granddaughters, Maggie, Norah, Novella and Sydney; and a special niece, Melissa Brockert of Wilton.
Rita was preceded in death by her parents; and one son, Eric McNamara
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