Rita Marie FlorCruz Trenga

Rita Marie FlorCruz Trenga, age 71, passed away on January 4, 2024, in Alexandria, Virginia.

Rita was born on April 4, 1952, in San Francisco, California. Her love of travel was ingrained early on, with her family living in Germany, Panama, and Vienna, Virginia, before settling in Alexandria, Virginia.  Her legendary library of travel books, the pages adorned with endless notations, is a sight to behold.

Rita was a beloved wife, daughter, and sister, a devoted mother, and a best friend to all.  Her infectious laugh, radiant smile, and twinkling eyes brightened the day for everyone she encountered.

She was a superb cook and gracious hostess, making sure everyone felt welcomed and important.  She was a passionate sailor. Her sewing skills extended from embroidery and needlepoint to the enormous sails she made at Potomac Sailmakers for clients who sailed the world over.  She was a certified Master Gardener of Virginia. She volunteered at the White House Correspondence Office during both Obama terms. She was a tireless volunteer at St. Stephens & St. Agnes School in Alexandria, and at National Cathedral School in Washington, DC.

Rita graduated from Fort Hunt High School in Alexandria in 1970. She went to the University of Florida where she received her BA in Spanish and Latin American Studies.  Rita remained at the University of Florida for post-graduate studies in Business Administration.

Rita was preceded in death by her father, Colonel Pedro FlorCruz y Roxas, and her mother, Juanita Begley FlorCruz. Rita is survived by her husband of 41 years, The Honorable Judge Anthony J. Trenga, and their children Elizabeth Trenga, Anthony Trenga, MD, (Jennifer Trenga, DO).  She is also survived by her siblings, Paul FlorCruz, David FlorCruz, and Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Celia FlorCruz, as well as her grandchildren, Anthony (Trey), Banks, and Dominic.

Catholic Rites of Christian burial will be held at St. Mary’s Basilica, at 10:30 am on Saturday, January 20 located at 301 South Royal in Olde Town, Alexandria, Virginia, where Rita was a member for many years. A reception will immediately follow at the Lyceum, 313 Duke Street, within walking distance from the church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington, P.O. Box 1900, Merrifield, Virginia 22116-1900, or online at https://secure.ccda.net/.Give/Give/Donate/.Govomg.aspx. Contributions can also be made to the Alzheimer Foundation at alz.org.

Rita Marie FlorCruz Trenga will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.  May she rest in peace.