Olita Marie Cerni

Lita is survived by husband of 66 years, Raymond Cerni, her children Dorothy Rubio (Mark) and Sherri Meyerson (Lance), her grandchildren Whitney Calfee (Taylor), Jackie Holder, Jonathan Yant (Catherine), Natalie Yant, Riley Rubio, Lauren Rubio, Ashley Barnes and Audrey Barnes. She is preceded in death by her daughter Laurie Cerni Yant. Lita was born in Salem, Massachusetts and was fluent in French. She married Raymond in Boston in 1959, and they moved to Jacksonville Florida where they raised their family. Lita was a loving mother to her three daughters. She was active in their lives, volunteered for many church and school functions, and was a Girl Scout Leader. She liked to cook, swim and get friends together. The family spent many summers at the beach campground, where she made some amazing dinners in those tiny campers. At 43 years of age, she developed Guillain-Barre syndrome, which would limit her mobility for the rest of her life. She faced this physical struggle with strength and grit, refusing to let this limit her life. She went on to be a successful commercial real estate agent and inspired all who were lucky enough to be her friend. Lita loved to help others, encouraged those around her to reach their goals, and made a difference in many of the lives she touched. She was a devout Catholic and lived God’s word by example every day.

A funeral is scheduled for 12:00 on April 13th at Blount and Curry Funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the American Cancer Society.