Teresa "Rita" Buonomo

Teresa (Fitzgerald) Buonomo, known to her friends and family as “Rita”, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2023 after facing cancer with unwavering bravery. Rita experienced her final months with a deep appreciation for a fully-lived life. She displayed a deeply loving and compassionate presence as friends and family came from near and far to visit and care for her, and their company brought immeasurable comfort and joy. Born in Dublin, Ireland she was the daughter to the late Roseanna (Early) and Michael Fitzgerald, and grew up in a large family with two sisters and two brothers. At nine years old, she moved with her family to Coventry, England, where she attended Alderman’s Green Primary and Secondary School at Cardinal Wiseman. Her sense of adventure was unbounded, and in 1972, she moved to the United States, becoming a citizen in 1997. She worked for over twenty years as a medical biller and coder with Signature Healthcare in Brockton, before retiring in 2013. Her passion for her work brought her much joy, and her co-workers became her extended family. No one knew her better or loved her more than her husband, Steven. Starting with their marriage on September 30, 1972, the two embarked on a love affair lasting over 50 years. They moved to Stoughton in 1978 – a day after 'The Blizzard of '78' – setting down roots, having children, and living in the same home where she passed away. Steve, quiet and relaxed, complemented Rita's outgoing and spirited style perfectly. The two built a life together, making additions to their house while enjoying simple times together, going out to dinner, or having nights in.

Despite the distance, family remained the most important thing to Rita, with frequent trips to the UK & Ireland to visit family back home. She was well-traveled, visiting many parts of the world, including Spain, Greece, and Mexico. No part of travel was more important to her than seeing family. She cherished her travels with them, making each adventure a memorable story to share. Rita's family brought her immeasurable joy, especially her grand-nieces and nephews, who could always count on 'Auntie Rita' for a warm hug and a playful twinkle in her eye. Her love for them was boundless. Never leaving the old country entirely behind, Rita was a daily tea drinker, which she often complemented with midnight cups of coffee. These fueled her as she met each day with a firm intent to live out her passions, which were as diverse as her adventures. Loving high-spirited conversation and laughter, she often delivered words with a glint of mischief in her voice and eyes. Despite her boisterousness, Rita also loved the quiet craft of gardening, each spring turning her yard into a blooming wonderland. Rita's annual 'Third of July' cookouts became legendary, with delicious fare and contagious laughter, drawing friends and family together in celebration. The only thing more sizzling than the barbeque was her sense of humor. Her family extends their heartfelt thanks to the medical professionals who expertly and compassionately cared for her, including teams from The Dana Farber Cancer Center and Old Colony Hospice.

In addition to her husband of over 50 years, she is survived by her children Jonathan Buonomo of Somerville and Janine Buonomo and her partner Daniel Neville of Quincy, as well as her grand-dog Henry. She is also survived by her siblings John Fitzgerald and his partner Jackie of Coventry, England, and Rosaleen Rose and her husband Steve of Olympia, Washington, and was preceded in death by her siblings Maureen Loughran and Eddie Fitzgerald. She also leaves behind countless loved family members in the States, the UK, and Ireland.

Visiting Hours will be held at the Farley Funeral Home, 358 Park Street (Rt. 27), Stoughton, on Tuesday, September 19th from 4-7 PM. A Funeral Service will be held at the funeral home the next day, Wednesday September 20th at 10 AM. Interment will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Stoughton with a Celebration of Life to immediately follow. As we gather to celebrate the extraordinary life of Rita, let us remember her not only with tears but with smiles, laughter, and the love that defined her journey. Rita would not have it any other way. In lieu of flowers, donations in Rita’s memory may be made to Old Colony Hospice, 321 Manley Street, West Bridgewater, MA 02379 or https://www.oldcolonyhospice.org/donation-overview.