Rita Bembenista Rider

Rita Teresa Bembenista Rider, beloved wife of the late Morgan Rider, passed away in Atlanta GA on February 22nd at the age of 95. She is survived by her daughter Elizabeth Rider, son-in-law Christopher Longfield, and granddaughter Nelle Longfield.

Born and raised in Buffalo NY, Rita had an adventurous and pioneering spirit. Originally a “city girl” she moved with Morgan to Corfu NY in 1965 to live on a plot of land where they first had a trailer and soon built a house that they designed. Although Morgan passed away after only 6 years of marriage, she considered him the love of her life and was never interested in another romantic relationship. Rita was close with her two brothers and sisters-in-law and 6 nieces and nephews, creating cherished memories around Polish family traditions and other celebrations through the years. In addition to her immediate family, Rita maintained close relationships with extended family and friends, offering them guidance, love, and a touch of her unique humor throughout their lives. One of her most meaningful experiences was fostering Rodney Stringham, a connection that continued to flourish as they remained close throughout her life.

Rita enjoyed traveling and she went on many exotic trips throughout the years, enjoying learning about different cultures.  She was an avid dog lover, and her deep affection for animals reflected her nurturing spirit. She owned dogs all of her life and was always thinking of the dogs’ needs, including if they had enough food to eat, this despite their obvious pudginess. After retiring, Rita enjoyed attending water aerobics at the YMCA and luncheons at The Salvation Army in Batavia. She was grateful for these opportunities and felt fortunate to forge friendships in later life. Rita also very much enjoyed frequent trips to Batavia Downs Casino with her friend, but she never played any games except nickel slots, and she enjoyed taking advantage of all the “freebies” offered. In her late 80s, Rita discovered that a local chicken wing restaurant gave out free chicken wings on a patron’s birthday and she would round up her friends and have them go share whatever number of chicken wings she was eligible for based on her age- the last may have been 90! 

After living on her own until she was 93, in her later years Rita moved to Atlanta to live with her daughter. However, when it came to football her heart remained steadfastly with the Buffalo Bills. A devoted fan, she found joy in cheering on her team and complaining when they made a misstep. Rita’s love for music, especially the blues, was a testament to her vibrant spirit, and she could often be found tapping her feet to the rhythm of her favorite tunes.

Rita’s warmth, humor, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and a reminder to cherish the moments spent with loved ones.

In honor of Rita’s legacy the family encourages those who wish to remember her to consider making a donation to a local animal shelter, St Jude’s Childrens’ Research Hospital, Disabled American Veterans, or to simply plant a tree in her honor.