After a long goodbye, Rita quietly passed away in St. John's on June, 19, 2017, succumbing to complication from Alzheimer's. Rita was predeceased by her husband Dermot and son Keith (Dorothy); parents Henry and Catherine; brothers Stephen, George and Henry; sister Mary; step-aunt by marriage Hannie; grandchildren Valerie, Michael and Keith; daughter-in-law Connie; as well as many lifelong dear friends. She is survived by sisters Evelyn and Teresa; sons John (Jill), Randy (Anna) and Vince (Lucy); daughters Karen Sarro (Frank), Paula Manore (Chris), Mary Jean Lyth (Peter) and Audrey Wilson (Pat); 20 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Ella Molloy; and many extended family members. Rita was a genuine and gracious soul, so loving and loved; compassionate, kind, witty, always cheery, ever optimistic, she was the best! People loved to be around her - her shining spirit, her laugh, were contagious. Always there to lend an empathetic ear and offer wise counsel, Rita was selfless and met life's challenges with great courage. Born in Patrick's Cove, Placentia Bay, she lived most of her life in Branch, St. Mary's Bay. As a young mom, Rita was an elementary school teacher, later she worked in the fish plant and for many years a book keeper - all work that she truly enjoyed. She loved working on the history of Branch by talking with the seniors from the community. Throughout her life, Rita's constant passion was her wonderful garden - flowers as well as vegetables. Never one to complain, always smiling, always caring, Rita's wonderful spirit and gift of endless love will remain with us forever. To the staff at Pleasantville Towers and Woodford Manor, we extend our many thanks for their kindness. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Manning's Funeral Service. Visitation to take place at Holy Rosary Church, Branch on Tuesday and Wednesday. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Rosary Church on Thursday, June 22 at 2 pm. Interment to follow at Holy Rosary Cemetery, Branch. Flowers are gratefully accepted or a donation may be made directly to Cystic Fibrosis Atlantic in her memory. To place condolences, please visit www.mahersfuneralhome.ca.