Rita F. Lentz

Rita Lentz (Nay Porfirio) of Bristol Borough, PA passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on January 12, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Although born in the city of Philadelphia, Rita was raised in Bristol where she would spend the next 80+ years raising her children and affixing herself as a staple in the community.  No matter how many times she traveled to Italy, or vacations visiting her daughter in Florida, Bristol Borough was always “home.”

Rita attended St. Ann School and was a graduate from Bristol High School in 1955. Rita later married Philip Lentz who was the love of her life on October 3, 1970. Rita and Phil would lay down roots in Rita’s family home on Monroe Street in Bristol Borough, where they would reside for the rest of their lives. Having a love for life and fun, they loved to dance the night away at the Moose Lodge and local VFW, usually staying until closing with friends.

Rita was known by all throughout her community for her loving heart, constant acts of kindness and going above and beyond for everyone in need.  She would regularly chauffeur her family and friends to church, breakfast or anywhere they needed to travel. One of her kindest and most empathetic gestures was being there for any Bristolian in their darkest hours of grief. 

As a lifelong parishioner at St. Ann Church, Rita was a staple at the Sunday liturgy, dedicated novena masses, volunteer for all major parish events and a volunteer from its inception at the yearly St. Ann Carnival and Italian Festival. 

Rita previously held the position as a secretary at Warren Snyder School in Bristol and was fondly bestowed with the title of “Miss Rita.”  During her time there, she had the opportunity to instill respect and share love with the students, but also a little fear for those who crossed her path. Rita fondly enjoyed her time in the school system, and after her tenure as a secretary, she would meet many of the retirees for the monthly luncheons. As a volunteer Rita was also actively involved in working the election polls and spent countless years as a judge of elections in the East Ward of Bristol Borough.

Rita was very proud of her Italian heritage, was fluent in Italian and in November 2010 received dual citizenship as an Italian citizen. Adored with many expressions of love with local family and friends, she also received the same from Roccavivara Italy with a good Italian meal and a glass of red wine. 

A well-loved human who appreciated her precious time with friends and family, Rita shared her life with all who surrounded her.  Undoubtedly, everyone will carry a piece of her memory forever in their hearts.

Rita was preceded in death by her loving parents Antonietta and Joseph, devoted sister Mary, husband Philip and her in-laws Philip and Margaret. She is survived by her son Joseph, daughter Maria (Philip), daughter Darlene (Carl), grandchildren Philip and Daniel.

Family and friends are invited to gather Tuesday evening, January 23, 2024, from 6 - 9 pm and Wednesday morning, January 24, 2024, from 9 – 10:45 am at St Ann Church, 357 Dorrance Street, Bristol, PA 19007. Funeral mass will begin at 11 am. Interment will follow at  Washington Crossing National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Rita to St. Mark Church,1024 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, PA 19007 or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Galzerano Funeral Home.