Lynn Nancy Ritacco's Obituary
Lynn Nancy Ritacco, 63, passed away in the comfort of her own home on August 23, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. She leaves behind her husband of 21 years, Stefan Ritacco; her sons, Austin Vera and Dylan Ritacco; and her siblings, Michael Barbarette (Marian Borg, Emma, and Claire), Lisa Barbarette Addeo (Russell), and Mary Cornell (Tym, Robyn, Byrch, and Fern). She was predeceased by her daughter, Kristin Lubus, and granddaughter, Jaidyn Arcari.
Lynn was born in Providence, Rhode Island on March 16, 1961, and spent most of her childhood in the Northeast. Lynn’s family moved to South Florida when she was a teenager, and she graduated from South Plantation High School in 1979. Soon after, Lynn went to cosmetology school at Hollywood College of Beauty Culture and became a hair stylist. She managed several salons in her career and met her husband, Stefan, while cutting his hair at a Sports Clips. They got married in Las Vegas, Nevada on February 6, 2003, and had an unforgettable stay at Caesars Palace. About ten years later, Lynn retired to care for her youngest son, Dylan, who was diagnosed with Autism at an early age. Her family moved to High Springs, Florida in 2014 to be closer to her oldest son, Austin, and the rest of her family. She enjoyed spending quality time with family and friends, especially the large gatherings and celebrations at Mike and Marian’s home. She also enjoyed tending to her garden and feeding the outside cats in her backyard that she adopted.
Being a mother came naturally to Lynn. She had an effortless drive to ensure her children were safe, well-fed, and most importantly, loved more than they could imagine. Her son, Austin, would visit her often and it wasn’t long after the welcome hug at the front door that she’d be handing him a freshly made glass of sweet tea and asking him if there was anything else that he needed. Her signature phrase was “anything for you.” She was also an extraordinarily proud mother. Almost any given conversation she had would circle back to her children. She wanted the world to know everything about them. This pride was instilled into the hearts of her children as she’d leave no moment spared to remind them of just how special they were.
Lynn got a true rush from getting a good deal when out shopping. She’d often make trips to CVS, armed with enough coupons to make the next customer in line grumble. After “robbing them”, as she’d say, she’d pridefully lay out her items on the kitchen counter and ask, “how much do you think I paid for all this?” with a priceless smile on her face. Her excitement over the simple things in life was a treasured quality of hers. She was in her most carefree state when she was bouncing between slot machines in a casino. As she’d say, “it’s just me and the machine,” and all other life obligations, duties, and difficulties would disappear.
Lynn was a devoted and loving wife, sister, and mother. She was also a cherished aunt to her nieces and nephew. Everyone who knew her loved and admired her generous spirit. Lynn’s boundless love will blossom forever in the hearts of her friends and family.
A Celebration of Lynn’s Life will be held at Williams-Thomas Funeral Homes, 823 NW 143rd St, Newberry, on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.
If inclined to donate, please support the organization Autism Speaks Inc. in honor of her son, Dylan.
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