Mrs. Rita L. Palaisa, 51, of Uniontown, passed away on Saturday, April 19, 2025 at Magee Womens Hospital, with her loving and devoted husband by her side.

She was born in Amend, PA on October 24, 1973 to Daniel and Joan Martelli Kuritz.

Rita graduated from Tri-Valley High School, class of 1991.  She then obtained her bachelor's of science from Waynesburg University School of Nursing, class of 1995.  Throughout her career she obtained many certificates, one of her proudest was the WOCN, wound care certificate.

She started and managed two wound care centers, previously worked at Brownsville General Hospital and Washington Hospital; and most recently was the Senior Compliance Coordinator for UPMC Home Health out of Lemont Furnace.

She married Mr. Donald Palaisa on September 20, 1997.

Rita is a member of St. John Byzantine Church.

She was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan, enjoyed the sun and the beach, and going antiquing and crafts.

Rita is survived by her husband, Donald Palaisa of Uniontown; parents, Daniel and Joan Kuritz of Amend, PA; siblings, Denise Celaschi (Matthew) of Brownsville, Daniel Kuritz, Jr. (Jamie) of Uniontown, Susan Rushe (Jeff) of Mars, PA, and Kara Gimenez (Matias) of Falls Church, VA; father and mother in law, Donald and Mary Jo Palaisa of New Salem; sister in law, Lisa (Andrew) Harvilla of New Salem; nieces and nephews, Emilee (Jonathan) Stiner, Michael Rushe, God son, Nicholas Rushe, Claire Kuritz, Charlie Moore, Emma Celaschi, and Lucas Gimenez; and many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Visitation for Rita will be held at the Stephen R. Haky Funeral Home, 603 N. Gallatin Ave. Ext., Uniontown, PA 15401 on Wednesday, April 23 from 2 to 8 PM. A liturgy of Christian burial at St. John Byzantine Church, 185 E. Main St., Uniontown, PA 15401 on Thursday, April 24th at 10 AM.

Interment is in Lafayette Memorial Park.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the doctors and nurses of Magee Womens Hospital floor 5800; and to friend and visiting nurse, Diane Humbert for the exceptional care and love to Rita during her journey.

Your personal written tributes and memories are welcome and encouraged at www.hakyfuneralhome.com