Edward John Rabbito, 78, of The Villages, Florida, passed away suddenly on October 23, 2025. To know Ed was to know laughter, loyalty, and love in its truest form. He was a devoted husband, proud father, and adoring grandfather who treasured his family above all else. His deep love for his country, his community, and the people around him was woven into everything he did.
Born in Lawrence, Massachusetts, on June 19, 1947, Ed was the beloved son of the late Stephen and Agnes Rabbito and grew up in North Andover as the youngest of two children. A graduate of North Andover High School, Class of 1965, Ed went on to serve his country with courage and pride in the United States Army, fighting in the Vietnam War. His service instilled in him a lifelong sense of patriotism and honor that never wavered.
After returning home, his life truly began when he met and married Margaret ‘Peggy’ Rabbito, the love of his life. Together they shared 53 wonderful years, building a home filled with laughter, music, and love. Wherever they lived in North Andover, no matter the street, there was always a dance party to be had.
Ed was a proud and active member of his community. He poured his heart into his service at VFW Post 2104, where for many years he served as Commander and as part of the Color Guard. He loved his town and could often be found volunteering for local events, leading the Fourth of July celebrations on the Common, or making people smile in his famous holiday clown suit as he delivered gifts to children and nursing home residents. His presence lit up every room and every occasion, and he had that rare gift of making everyone feel seen and appreciated.
Professionally, Ed built a long and successful career with AVCO, Textron, and later Raytheon, where he made lifelong friends who became like family. But no matter where life took him, Ed always put people first. He believed in showing up, lending a hand, and making time for the moments that mattered.
When Ed and Peg retired to The Villages in 2019, they embraced the sunshine, the golf courses, the live music, and the easy laughter of new friends and adventures. Even in retirement, Ed remained his same joyful, big-hearted self, always quick with a joke, always the first to lend a hand, and always ready to raise a glass at happy hour to celebrate life’s blessings.
Ed’s greatest pride was his family. He leaves behind his loving wife Peggy, his cherished children Tracey Rabbito of Lowell, Susan Gitschier and her husband Ken of North Andover, and John Rabbito and his wife Erin of Tyngsboro. He was the proud Papa of Brooke, Julia, and Tate Rabbito, and Nolan and Lennon Gitschier, who were the absolute lights of his life. He is also survived by his dear brother Steve Rabbito and his partner Barbara of The Villages, Florida, his sister and brother-in-law Patricia and Raymond Galloni of Salem, New Hampshire, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever carry his laughter and love in their hearts.
Ed will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, his humor that could fill a room, and his deep love of family, friends, and country. He lived life with gratitude, generosity, and joy, and he made the world a better place just by being in it. His spirit will live on in every family gathering, every shared laugh, every song, and every act of kindness.
Services will be held with Conte Funeral Home in North Andover, Massachusetts on Sunday, November 9, 2025 and St. Michael’s Parish on Monday, November 10, 2025.
For those who wish to honor Ed’s memory, donations may be made to the organizations listed below.
Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org Or Tunnels to Towers Foundation at dogood.t2t.org.com.