Rita C. Lockhead (née Brannigan) age 82, died surrounded by loving family, October 27, 2019 in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Most recently she lived in New Smyrna Beach; however, the Lockhead family was a fixture at St. Matthew School and Church in Mayfair, Philadelphia, for as long as anyone can recall.

Rita is survived by her husband of 58 years Charles J. Lockhead, of Florida, formerly of Mayfair; her children: Meg (Curt) Carey of New Smyrna Beach, FL; Charlie (Lisa) of Harleysville, PA; Sean (Diana Breen) of Richboro, PA; Rita of Schwenksville, PA; her grandchildren Malissa (Ryan) Bower, Justin Carey; Alyxandra and Sean Andrew Lockhead; and Kyle, Dylan, Ashley, Ryan, Tyler and Zachary Lockhead; her brothers James (Dorothy) Brannigan, Terrence Brannigan, and Dennis Brannigan. She was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Rose Barnett and her brother, John Brannigan.
She is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and colleagues.

Rita was born to Margaret (Peg) and James (Jimo) Brannigan and spent most of her life in Philadelphia. She taught for 24 years at Saint Matthew Catholic School in Philadelphia shaping the lives of thousands of children.

Please join the Lockhead family on Saturday, November 2, 2019 at Saint Matthew Church, 3000 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19149 where Rita’s viewing will take place from 9:15 a.m. until 10:15 a.m. followed by her Mass of Christian burial at 10:30 a.m. (Interment will take place 10:00 a.m. Monday, November 4, 2019 at Washington Crossing National Cemetery.) Immediately after the Mass, the family asks that you join them at The State Room, 7340 State Road, Philadelphia, PA 19136 for lunch and fellowship where Rita’s husband and family will be accessible to receive the loving comfort of your condolences, remembrances and support. In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to Miraculous Medal Shrine, 500 E. Chelten Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19144