Purita Taas Alamo, 86, was called home by our Lord on Friday, April 10, 2026. Purita or Rita, as her friends knew her, or Mama, as her grandchildren and their friends knew her, was born in Manila, Philippines, on May 14, 1939.

Rita married the love of her life, Herminio Alamo in 1965, the following year Arlene was born, and two years after that Agnes was born. In 1972, Rita’s life was shattered after she was widowed at the age of 33, and forced to raise two young girls on her own. Rita was able to finish her college degree while both holding a management position in the Procurement Office of the Philippine government and raising her two daughters. Her dedication and diligence for these girls culminated into one ideal, her two daughters follow her footsteps and earn their college degrees. Her love and resilience helped make that dream come true. Arlene earned her Physical Therapy degree and license from Emilio Aguinaldo College, and Agnes her engineering degree from UP.

Rita was a phenomenal role model for her two daughters who went on from graduating college to enjoying fine careers, and raising great families.

Rita was a world class chef who loved nothing more than asking you “did you eat yet today” and then cooking something fantastic for you. Everyone will especially miss her Lumpia.

Rita is survived by a very large and loving family. Her two daughters Arlene A. Kulessa and her husband Robert of Toms River NJ, Agnes A Armena and her husband Rodney of Mississauga Ontario. Her six grandchildren, Jed Armena and his wife Fay of Kenmore Washington, Cheyne Kulessa and his wife Corey of Siler City NC, Dan Armena and his wife Karyn of Hamilton Ontario, Morgan Kulessa of Jersey City NJ, Sarah Armena of Toronto Ontario and Richie Kulessa of Toms River NJ. Her three great-grandchildren, Ethan Armena of Kenmore Washington, Aubrey Armena of Hamilton, Ontario, Mia Armena of Kenmore Washington.

Visitation will take place on Monday, April 13, 2026, from 5 - 8 pm at Kedz Funeral Home, 1123 Hooper Avenue. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 10:00 am at St. Justin's Roman Catholic Church, 975 Fischer Boulevard, Toms River. Interment to follow.