Rita Ann Mangieri

Rita Ann Mangieri was born on August 3, 1953, to John and Edythe Jakiun in Brooklyn, New York. She moved to Texas in her early teens, living in the Dallas area for the rest of her days.

Rita was a kind soul, a wonderful wife and mother, who loved to create things. Among so many others, she decorated goose eggs, made jewelry, pony bead spider key chains as Halloween treats, and chenille rose rings that she gave out to practically anyone she met. Even gift wrapping was an art, which had to be done, just so.

Rita passed away on March 31, 2026 at the age of 72.

In addition to the possibly hundreds of children (and adults) who remember her as a room parent, The Book Fairy, or Spider Lady, Rita is survived by William - her husband of 43 years, her son Nicholas and Nicholas’ wife Lauren, who all simply adored her.