Funeral mass was offered March 9 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Jersey City, for Rita Eckhardt, 74, of North Arlington, formerly of Jersey City. She passed away March 5. Born in Jersey City, she remained a resident until moving to live with her daughter in North Arlington 15 years ago. Rita was a well known fixture in Jersey City, working at J&J Lounge, The Astor Bar and Just Sonny’s. She was the true matriarch of her family, raising her siblings from an early age and devoting herself to her children and grandchildren. She loved the Jersey Shore, especially Stone Harbor, but most of all, she loved her family. Rita was predeceased by her brothers, William and Michael Chevalier. She is survived by her companion of 40 years, Charlie Ricciardi, children, Peter (Elizabeth), Patricia DeSanto (Gus), Michael (Cassie); brothers, Edward and John Chevalier; sister, Michelle Appruzese; grandchildren, Peter, Matthew, Alyssa, Lauren, Ashley, Darien, Danielle, Devin and Maddison; “Frankie” and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Services arranged by the McLaughlin Funeral Home, Jersey City.