Rita M. Warfield

Rita Marie DiLucia Warfield, age 68, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA, with her husband by her side.

Born in Pittsburgh on May 11, 1957, Rita was the fourth daughter of the late Francis DiLucia and Rita Hreha DiLucia. She grew up in Lincoln Place alongside her four sisters, graduated from Taylor Allderdice High School, and later attended business school, where she learned “key punch.”

Rita began her career at Duquesne University in the Budget Control Office, a place where she truly flourished. She remained a dedicated and valued member of the Duquesne community for five decades, proudly celebrating her 50th year of service just last year. During her time there, she served on numerous committees, but the role closest to her heart was serving as the Delta Zeta Advisor. Through that work, she met many students whom she loved dearly and with whom she maintained lifelong connections.

Rita found love later in life when she married David Warfield. Together they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and the gentle chaos of three beloved dogs. Their door was always open for family and friends and over the years they became a haven for the many great- nephews who stayed with them while pursuing their education — each one welcomed, supported, and loved as if he were their own.

Although Rita never had children of her own, she somehow managed to become a second mother to more people than anyone could reasonably count. Her heart had this beautiful habit of expanding to fit whoever needed a little extra love, and she gave it freely—family, friends, neighbors, and anyone lucky enough to cross her path.

She filled her days with the things that brought her joy: crocheting cozy creations, doting on her family and her beloved dogs, cheering (loudly) for the Pirates and the Steelers with unwavering loyalty, and baking cookies for special occasions. Her pizzelles were legendary and will be missed.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Francis DiLucia and Rita Hreha DiLucia, and by her sister, Rosemary DiLucia Findlan. She is survived by her husband, David Warfield; her sisters Lorraine Roeper of Finleyville, PA, Elaine Franks of St. Petersburg, FL, and Patrice Ross of Pittsburgh, PA; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and three great-great-niece.

To honor Rita’s life, the family welcomes donations to “the Best of the Batch Foundation“ or “Pirates Charities” in lieu of flowers.

Family and friends received on Friday, February 6, from 2-4 PM & 6-8 PM at the George Irvin Green Funeral Home, Inc., 3511 Main Street, Munhall, 412-461-6394. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place the following morning at the Duquesne University Chapel: Chapel of the Holy Spirit, 600 McAnulty Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, Fr. Bill Christy officiating. EVERYONE IS TO MEET AT CHURCH. Please leave your memories and condolences at www.georgeigreenfuneralhome.com.