Rita Rae Allen (Sjurseth)

December 30, 1964 – March 22, 2026

Rita Rae Allen, age 61, passed away peacefully at her New Brighton home on March 22, 2026, after a long but courageous battle with cancer. A Fridley native and the youngest of seven, Rita found her best friend and the love of her life, James, at a local rollerskating rink as teenagers. Together, they shared 40+ years of marriage, happiest on warm summer days filled with swimming, rock music and family barbecues and summer nights by the fire pit with the kids playing on the trampoline and the tree swing.

A dedicated stay-at-home mother, Rita’s world revolved around her children, Alysia and Jimmy. From spending many days volunteering at the kids' schools to providing groceries for Alysia’s college roommates - she always put others first. Her most profound gift was the intuitive bond she shared with her son, Jimmy, through 30+ years of devoted care. Rita also found great joy in her gardens, family bingo traditions, and cheering for the Vikings (SKOL!).

She was preceded in death by her parents, Don and Daurice, and brothers Doug, Donnie, and Dave. She is survived by her husband, James; children, Alysia (Miles) and Jimmy; and siblings, Yvonne, Dawn, and Darin.

Rita had the beautiful thought of having her "celebration of life" while she was still with us, so family gathered in October 2025 at the Fridley VFW. This was chosen on purpose as it was a place with strong memories - most notably, Rita and James had their first date playing a game of pool there in 1984. In keeping with Rita’s wishes, no formal funeral service will be held. Her family asks that you honor her by enjoying a game of bingo or watching an afternoon episode of Jeopardy in her memory.

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