Obituary: Rita M. Connors, National Spelling Bee Finalist and High School Valedictorian

Obituary from CR Lyons and Sons Funeral Directors.

Rita M. Connors passed away peacefully on Wednesday, with her husband at her side, as always. Born in Boston in 1928, she was the older sister to brothers Edward and Robert. Rita was a national spelling bee finalist and valedictorian of her high school before attending Regis College. She married John J. Connors in 1950. John and Rita relocated to Cinnaminson, NJ where they raised their 5 children. They returned to their New England roots after 50 years in NJ, to be closer to their grandchildren.

Rita was adored by all who knew her. Her life revolved around her children and grandchildren. Her smile, wit, kindness, and generosity made her a magnet to friends and family alike. All who entered her home were family to her.

She was legendary for her apple pies, beautiful singing voice, infectious laugh, high intelligence, and clever wit. She enjoyed painting, swimming, gardening, and really bad B movies. In later years, when dementia took her mind, it never touched her sweet spirit. She was loved by her caretakers at Brooksby Village, who felt the kindness of her soul in her eyes and in her touch.

Rita is survived by her husband of 65 years, John, and her children Cheryl (Willis) of Pennsylvania, Karen (Ela) of Connecticut, Daniel of New Jersey, Lisa (Miles) of Massachusetts, and predeceased by her beloved son, Brien. Rita adored her grandchildren, Melanie and Richard (Willis); Ryan, Christopher, and Michele (Ela); and Wesley and Connor (Miles), as well as great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other family members.

A celebration of Rita’s life will be held on June 5th at 11:30am, at the Brooksby Village Chapel, 300 Brooksby Village Dr, Peabody, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rita’s memory to: MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 1300, Boston, MA 02114.