Rita Gruntler Roussos, 79, passed away on August 31, 2026. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose life was defined by her strength, compassion, humor, and devotion to those around her.

Born on October 31, 1946, Rita was the daughter of Dora and Frederick Gruntler and the sister of Greg Gruntler, her only sibling. A Halloween birthday was fitting for Rita, who maintained a lifelong love of Halloween, witches, and all things delightfully spooky.

Rita married her beloved husband, Phillip Roussos, in 1977 and was preceded in death by him. She spent many years in Tivoli and Red Hook, New York, before making her more recent home in Hurley. She especially enjoyed driving through Tivoli and Red Hook, taking in the beauty of the Hudson Valley. She also held a special place in her heart for Greece, where Phillip was from.

Rita dedicated much of her life to caring for others. She worked as an ER technician in the 1980s and later at Daytop and other various locations. She also served her community as an EMT and firefighter with the Tivoli Fire Department. Her commitment to helping others was not just a part of her career, but a reflection of the caring and compassionate person she was. Rita was a registered nurse, graduating with her associates from Dutchess Community College in 1990.

Those who knew Rita will remember her for her strength, kindness, quick wit, and unmistakable sense of humor. She had a remarkable ability to make people laugh, even during difficult times.

Rita found joy in many simple things, including coffee, reading, black cats, Halloween, and her beloved Boston Terriers. Her Boston Terrier, Molly, was her cherished companion and best friend for many years.

To her grandchildren and loved ones, Rita was affectionately known as "Ninnin." The nickname originated with her first grandchild, Maddisyn, who, as a young child, could not quite pronounce "Nana." What began as a childhood mispronunciation became the name by which Rita would be lovingly known for the rest of her life.

Rita was the devoted mother of Jessica Roussos-Berkowitz and son-in-law Andrew Berkowitz, and daughter Paula Roussos. She was the cherished grandmother of Maddisyn Hajba, Ian Berkowitz, and Ana Berkowitz, and the beloved bonus grandmother of Mackenzey Fuller.

Rita shared a particularly special bond with Maddisyn, whom she raised from the age of two through young adulthood. Their relationship was a defining part of both their lives, and Rita was, in every way that mattered, her mother.

Rita leaves behind family, friends, and a community who will remember her for the many lives she touched, the people she cared for, and the laughter she brought with her wherever she went.

Her memory will live on in the everyday things that bring her to mind, whether that be a cup of coffee, a good book, a black cat, or the spirit of Halloween.

Rita's family will honor her privately. There will be no public funeral or wake.