Heritage Florida Jewish News - Central Florida's Independent Jewish Voice

Rita F. Geller, age 92, of Village on the Green, Longwood, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2017. Mrs. Geller was born in Brooklyn, New York, on April 27, 1925, to the late Hyman and Rose Wolfe Rubin. She was raised by her mother and family after her father passed away when she was only eight years old. Unlike most children, and specifically girls, at the time, she enrolled at Hunter College at the age of 16, hoping to study medicine and become a doctor. However, gender and society made that an impossibility. She did, however, graduate with a degree in biology at age 20 and entered the workforce.

On Aug. 30, 1947, in New York, she married the love of her life, Robert Geller, her husband of over 70 years who survives her. In 1953, the family now with two children, relocated to the Orlando area and later welcomed a third child. Rita’s days were filled with raising her family and PTA meetings. She then added a new career—that of a volunteer at ORMC for many years. She also joined Hadassah, becoming chapter president and holding regional positions. Professionally, Rita ran a thriving business buying and selling collectibles before moving on to real estate where she was highly successful. Rita left the real estate world and became a travel agent, which afforded the family the opportunity to travel to experience places like China and Egypt.

Always active and creative, Rita, above all, was a loving wife to Robert and mother to Charles (Judi), Susan (Beau Burgess) and Wendy (Alan) Kornman. Her grandchildren Marissa, Adam, Josh and Joe (Stephanie) were her pride and joy.

Funeral services were held at Beth Shalom Memorial Chapel with Rabbi Arnold Siegel of Jewish Family Services officiating. A private family interment followed at Beth Israel Memorial Park, Gotha. In memory of Rita F. Geller, the family requests contributions to Lifespace Foundation, Rita Geller Memorial Bench, 500 Village Place, Longwood 32779. Arrangements entrusted to Beth Shalom Memorial Chapel, 640 Lee Road, Orlando 32810. 407-599-1180.