Linda Rita Cola

Linda Rita Cola of Hartsdale passed away peacefully at home on May 13, 2026, at the age of 77. Born in the Bronx to Peter and Edith Cola, Linda was the beloved oldest of six siblings and the heart of her family. A true matriarch, she was a guiding presence filled with unwavering love and wisdom for family and friends alike. Deeply admired for her beauty, grace, and elegance, Linda carried herself with warmth and sophistication that left an impression wherever she went. To her siblings, she was not only a sister, but also a confidante, trusted counsel, and steadfast source of support through every season of life.

Linda graduated from St. Clare Academy and attended Elizabeth Seton College before earning her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Mercy College. Fashion was not simply Linda’s profession — it was her passion, her gift, and the creative thread woven throughout her life. With impeccable taste, vision, and a remarkable eye for detail, she built a long and influential career in the fashion industry, leaving her footprints everywhere she worked.

Her career journey included roles with Howland Steinbach, Federated Department Stores, and Burdines in Miami, where her talent, professionalism, and eye for style earned the admiration of colleagues and peers alike. She later worked in maternity fashion before enjoying a long and successful career designing infant clothing for Little Me. Throughout every chapter of her career, Linda combined creativity, elegance, and dedication in a way that left a lasting impact on both the industry and the many people fortunate enough to work beside her.

In one of life’s most beautiful full-circle moments, Linda reconnected with her high school sweetheart, Tom La Morte, on her 68th birthday. After 45 years apart, the two found their way back to one another and shared ten deeply loving years together, creating treasured memories filled with companionship, devotion, laughter, and joy.

Linda split her time between New York and Asheville, where she especially loved the beauty and peace of the mountains. She enjoyed traveling, collecting silk scarves, and savoring a Dewar’s with a splash of water while surrounded by nature and the people she loved. Linda was a woman ahead of her time — independent, driven, and unafraid to forge her own path. She lived with strength and determination, while still leading with warmth, compassion, and unwavering devotion to the people she loved. Above all, Linda will be remembered for the way she made people feel — loved, supported, welcomed, and understood. She was fiercely devoted to her family, endlessly loyal to her friends, and generous with her time, wisdom, and heart. 

Her presence brought comfort, laughter, style, and strength to countless lives, and her absence leaves an immeasurable void.

Linda is survived by her beloved life partner, Tom La Morte; her siblings, Thomas (Terry) Cola, Elaine (Michael) Vivalo, Peter (Susan) Cola, and Carolann Cola Salinardo; along with many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.She was predeceased by her sister, Allyson Congro.