Rita M. Bruno, 94, a lifelong Poughkeepsie resident, died on February 14, 2016 at Vassar Brothers Medical Center. Rita had the distinction of being the first woman police officer for the Town of Poughkeepsie Police Force in 1959.

Born on September 30, 1921 in Poughkeepsie, she was the daughter of Edward and Elizabeth (Booth) Dean. On May 24, 1941, she married the love of her life, Earl T. Bruno, Sr., former Dutchess County Commissioner of Jurors, who predeceased her on May 10, 2009. They enjoyed a wonderful married life for close to sixty eight years traveling to Bermuda, Hawaii, Las Vegas, Cape Cod, and Atlantic City.

Rita is survived by her children, Barbara Cusher of Wappingers Falls and Earl Jr. “Tom” and his wife Sandra of Hyde Park; her sister, Dorothy Still of Poughkeepsie; her grandchildren, Shelley and William Syslo, Devin Cusher, Timothy Bruno and Zachary Bruno; her great grandchildren, Breanna and Jenna Syslo and Damon Cusher, all of whom brought her so much joy over the last fifty plus years. She also leaves behind her good friends and wonderful neighbors, Tom and Doris Serino; and her caregiver and friend, Dawn Decker. She was also predeceased by her son-in-law, Donald Cusher on April 11, 2014.

The family would like to thank the staff at Elant of Wappinger Falls and especially Marcia and Bill for the special care they provided. Rita will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.”

In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place. A service will be held at the Chapel at the Community Mausoleum at Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery on Saturday, February 27, 2016 at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dutchess County SPCA. For online condolences and memorial donations, please visit Rita’s Book of Memories a twww.mchoulfuneralhome.com.