Rita Anne Stugis, age 77, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2026, with her loving family by her side. She was born in Chicago, Illinois, to the late James and Sarah Ball on January 8, 1949.
Rita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph Frank Stugis Jr.
She leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory, including her children, Sally Stugis, Danielle Allen (Michael), Sandy Parus, and Joseph Stugis III (Lisa Fronek); her grandchildren, Jaclyn Christine, Crystal Lynn, Tyler James, Montana Issac, Samantha, Cordie, Marissa, Grace, and Joseph; and her great-grandchildren, Hayden, Rowan, Alexander, and Betty. She is also survived by her brothers, James Ball (Nancee) and Warren Ball (Sandy), along with many extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.
Rita had a heart for animals, especially dogs, and she loved each of her beloved dogs throughout the years. Her current fur babies, Foxy and Stella held a very special place in her heart. Rita also had a particular love for a good, crisp Diet Coke, shopping, and watching the Game Show Network—especially Family Feud with Steve Harvey.
Some of Rita’s happiest memories were made traveling with her family. She treasured the trips they took together and the many memories they created along the way, including a particularly special trip to the Grand Canyon and Graceland. She also enjoyed taking cruises with her husband and spending time fishing.
Above all, Rita treasured her family and the time she spent with the people and animals she loved. Her warmth, personality, and love for her family will be deeply missed, but the memories she created with them will remain in their hearts forever.
Visitation will be held Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Manchester Funeral Home, with the funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Memorial Gardens in Tullahoma, Tennessee.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Alive Hospice team in Murfreesboro for the wonderful care, compassion, and support they provided to Rita and her family.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Rita’s memory to Alive Hospice in Murfreesboro, Tennessee:
Alive Hospice
1629 Williams Drive
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Manchester Funeral Home is honored to serve the Stugis family.
