Rita Maria Pappas

Rita Maria Schmid Pappas, 89, of Suitland, Maryland, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Sunday, March 2, 2025.

Born on November 5, 1935, in St. Bartholomä, Germany, Rita was the beloved daughter of the late Georg and Klara Schmid Deininger. Though she shared a close bond with her parents, her heart truly blossomed when she moved to the United States, where she began a new chapter filled with love, family, and joy.

Rita met the love of her life, Tom, while still living in Germany. Their connection was instant, and with deep affection, he brought her to the U.S., rescuing her from an uncertain situation and offering her a life filled with love and companionship. The two were married for 56 wonderful years, and Rita devoted herself wholeheartedly to their life together.

She was a loving mother to her son, Uwe Sr., but it was her role as a grandmother that truly lit up her world. Her grandson, Uwe Jr., was her pride and joy, and she shared a special bond with all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Rita spent many years working at Princeton Elementary School as a beloved lunch lady, where her warm spirit and gentle nature touched the lives of countless children.

She found happiness in the simple pleasures of life—gardening, sewing, crafting, crocheting, and what she lovingly referred to as “painting” (her cherished coloring sessions). A weekly trip to the hair salon was a tradition she treasured. Rita also took great pride in being a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), where she volunteered her time generously in service of others. Above all, she deeply loved caring for her husband and family in every way she could.

Rita was a beautiful soul—gentle, loving, and kind even when she didn’t have to be. In her later years, her sassy side shone through, adding to the charm that made her so unforgettable. Her love was unconditional, her presence comforting, and her legacy everlasting.

Rita is survived by her devoted husband, Tom; her son, Uwe Sr.; her grandchildren, Uwe Jr., Brittany, and Heather; and her great-grandchildren, Scarlett, Hayley, Cayden, and Gemma.