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Opinion

Tribute to Rita

    by Mark Segal | Columnist
    Published 

My friend Rita Mezzaroba passed away two weeks ago. But her passing is not what this column will dwell on. It's about friendship and our straight allies — and if there ever was a straight ally, it was Rita.

Good friends encourage and support us, and they are also there in times of sorrow. And of course they can always be counted on. In that respect, Rita was the truest of friends.

Before I met Jason, she was concerned that I wasn't eating, so she cooked and brought me what I termed "care packages." I will miss her meatballs and sauce. I'd be remiss if I don't mention the love she gave her family. Watching that love made me, after the break-up of a long-term relationship, believe that love was still possible. And when she and her daughter met Jason for the first time 10 years ago, and I wasn't sure if I should pursue a relationship, they simply said, "He's a keeper." I'm so happy I listened to you!

At parties or fundraisers at my home, she'd take over the catering if it wasn't up to her standards. The point is, that is what a friend is, an integral part of your life. And I'm sure at times of decision in the future, I'll think, "How would Rita suggest we do this?" And I will smile, since working and being with Rita was always heartfelt.

Mark Segal, PGN publisher, is the nation's most-award-winning commentator in LGBT media. You can follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MarkSegalPGN or Twitter at https://twitter.com/PhilaGayNews.