Memorial Visitation at Funeral Home
Memorial Service
Obituary of Rita Marquez
Rita Marquez, age 43, of Washington, NJ, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2024, at Hunterdon Medical Center surrounded by her loving family and friends, following a courageous battle with neuroendocrine carcinoma. She leaves behind an indelible legacy of creativity, kindness, and love.
Born on April 2, 1981, in Newark, NJ, to parents Marta Franco and Cleofe Marquez, Rita displayed extraordinary artistic talents from an early age. This innate gift propelled her lifelong passion for art. She graduated from Frank H. Morrell High School and went on to achieve a BFA in Graphic Design and Illustration from Kean University.
Rita was a creative force, expressing her dynamic talents through various mediums including graphic design, illustration, painting, knitting, crafting, and baking. Her artistic identity was diverse and vibrant, capturing the essence of her joyful spirit.
Her love and generosity extended far beyond her artistry. Rita's creations became tokens of her affection, as she dedicated time to crafting personalized gifts, delights, and baked goods that revealed her deep care for her family and friends. Known for her compassion, she frequently volunteered her time to cook and provide meals for the homeless.
Throughout her illness, Rita found solace and companionship with Mary's Place by the Sea, a non-profit devoted to supporting women battling cancer. Here Rita not only received care and understanding but fostered meaningful friendships with other courageous women.
Rita is survived by her devoted parents, Marta Franco and Cleofe Marquez, her brother Jason Marquez and his wife Adriane, and her beloved nieces, Emma, Sophie, and Lana. She also leaves behind her loving aunts, Gloria Franco, Lizzie Franco, Sonia Rosario, and numerous cherished cousins and friends.
In honor of Rita's memory, donations can be made to Mary's Place by the Sea at
Family and friends are welcome to pay their respects on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, between 4 PM and 8 PM at Warren Hills Memorial Home, 234 West Washington Ave, Washington, NJ 07882. A memorial service celebrating Rita's life will begin at 6:00 PM in the funeral home. Condolences may also be expressed online at
Rita Marquez will be remembered as a beacon of artistic passion and unconditional love, leaving an enduring imprint on the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
