We are saddened to learn of the passing of Rita Martha (Claussen) Smith, Class of 1964 on February 22, 2026 (aged 80).

Rita was a resident of Sayville and is survived by her daughter Kimberly Smith, her niece Diane Henline and her husband Jack.

She was predeceased by her brother William Joseph Claussen (Class of 1957).

Family received visitors on Friday, February 27th from 7 – 9 p.m. at Raynor & D’Andrea Funeral Home 245 Montauk Highway West Sayville. There was a Private cremation.

A memorial page has been created in Rita’s honor, and the Sayville Alumni Association will remember her annually on her birthday, January 8th.  We hope this remembrance will provide solace for those who knew and loved Rita.

Note:  We did have in our files, Rita’s marriage article from the Suffolk County News on July 8, 1971, page 9