Emma Rita Powella

Emma Rita Powella, 91 Lakeland - Emma Rita Powella passed away in her sleep on March 9, 2015. She was born in Paterson, N.J. She and husband Emil moved to Lakeland in 1948. A widow since 1971, Rita worked at Florida Southern College in cancer research where she received a BA degree in psychology. She filled many roles at St. Joseph""s Catholic Church, volunteering for over 60 years. Her role as bereavement coordinator allowed her to help so many. Rita is survived by her sons, Emil and Ruhl, daughter, Carol Barnes, sister, Annamay Schenck, 4 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Joseph Catholic Church on Thursday, March 12, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. with a visitation one hour prior to the Mass. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Burial Park. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.heathfuneralchapel.com Service: 03/12/2015 St. Joseph Catholic Church 210 W. Lemon Street, Lakeland, Florida St. Joseph Catholic Church Visitation: 03/12/2015 St. Joseph Catholic Church