Rita Joanne Moran, affectionately known as "Cookie," passed away on April 18, 2026, in Salem, Virginia. She was born on November 9, 1934, in Brooklyn, New York.

Rita was a dedicated educator who taught fourth grade and kindergarten at Our Lady of Angels, the very school she once attended. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Staten Island, her MBA from Wagner College, and her Master of Education from St. John's University. Rita had a passion for travel and adventure, camping with her son across 45 states, including 42 trips to Hawaii and visits to 17 European countries. She was a devoted volunteer at St. Jude and Holy Rosary Thrift Stores and faithfully served as a Eucharistic Minister at St. Ann Church. Rita also had a deep love for animals, rescuing 11 dogs and 9 cats throughout her life, including her beloved guardian angel, Shadow.

She was preceded in death by her father, Edward Holochwost, and her mother, Rita Holochwost.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son, John Moran; her grandson, Johnny Moran; and her cherished companion, Shadow.

Rita will be remembered for her devotion to education, her spirit of service, her love of travel, and the compassion she showed to both people and animals throughout her life.