Rosemary "Ro" Carolyn Ricci

Rosemary "Ro" Carolyn Ricci was born on June 22, 1946, in Morristown, New Jersey, and passed away on April 13, 2026, in South Bend, Indiana. She lived a life marked by kindness, intelligence, and selflessness. 

She was the beloved daughter of the late Phillip and Loraine Ricci, whose love and guidance helped shape the thoughtful and compassionate woman she became. Ro carried those values throughout her life, touching the hearts of those who knew her with her gentle spirit and steady presence.  She was preceded in death by her younger brother, Phil Ricci.

Ro devoted herself to education and service, earning a master’s degree in special education and later working as a special education teacher in the New York City area. In that role, she brought patience, dedication, and deep understanding to her students, offering encouragement and support to children and families who benefited from her care. Her work reflected her belief in the importance of helping others reach their fullest potential, and she was respected for the sincerity and commitment she brought to her profession.

Outside of her career, Ro found joy in the simple and meaningful pleasures of life. She loved animals and shared her home and heart with her two cats, Tux and Monkey King, who were cherished companions. She also enjoyed and participated in multiple college and post-college theater productions and appreciated the creativity, storytelling, and performance that live theater offered. 

Ro will be remembered with love by her surviving cousin, Eugenia “Jeanne” Moran, and by her longtime friend and college roommate, Sandra Hackemann of Mishawaka, Indiana. She also leaves behind many memories of warmth, loyalty, and strength of character that will remain with all who were fortunate enough to know her.

No services will be held at this time. Rosemary’s ashes will be interred in the ossuary at Southlawn Cemetery, South Bend, IN. Palmer Funeral Home—River Park Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Online condolences may be shared at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

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