Rita Sweet

Rita M. (Fort) Sweet age 87, formerly of Troy passed away on August 15,  2026. Born in Winooski Vermont on May 22, 1939, she was the daughter of beloved parents, Clement and Priscilla (Devino) Abair. She is survived by her children, Irene Fort of New York City, Christopher (Margaret) Fort of West Sand Lake, Rachael (Eric) Siegelman and grandchildren Aaron and Elena Siegelman of Niskayuna. She was predeceased by her husband, William Sweet, sister Ellen Koonz and brother, Paul Abair. 

Rita was a graduate of the former St John’s Academy in Rensselaer, was active in Cohoes Girl/Boy Scouting, Little League, Traffic Commission and also served eight years on the Cohoes Common Council. She worked as an administrative assistant in both local government and private industry. She enjoyed singing in church and synagogue choirs. She was an active member of the Watervliet Senior Center and loved playing bocce. 

Funeral services were held privately for the family. 

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may send a contribution to Temple Beth El in Troy or to a local humane society.

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