Rita D. McDonough

Rita McDonough, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 21st, 2025, in Manchester, NH. 

She was 84 years old. Born on January 5, 1941, in Berlin, NH, Rita was the cherished daughter of Florence and Bernard DeVost and a loving sister to Louise. 

From an early age, Rita demonstrated a deep commitment to caring for others, a quality that defined her life’s journey. Rita married Mike McDonough, and together they built a beautiful family. She was the devoted mother to three children: Tim, Sarah, and Katie. 

Rita’s boundless love and selflessness were evident in every role she took on—whether as a high school teacher in Merrimack and Hanover NH, a dedicated daughter and sister, or a nurturing wife and mother. Beyond her family life, Rita was an active and compassionate member of her communities. She was a board member of the Women’s Aid Home, Interrogation Club and Southport, ME Yacht Club. Rita was also a passionate and involved gardener, including being a Master Gardener, the president of the Manchester Garden Club, and a member of the Boothbay, ME Garden Club. Her kindness and generosity left an indelible mark on all who knew her. 

Rita will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to others, her sense of humor, and her ability to bring beauty into the world—whether through her garden or the lives she touched. 

She will be profoundly missed but forever remembered with love by her family, friends, and all whose lives she enriched.

SERVICES: Calling hours are on Wednesday (1/29) from 2 to 4 p.m. at Lambert Funeral Home & Crematory, 1799 Elm St., Manchester. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday (1/30) 10 a.m. at St. Catherine Church, corner of Webster and Hemlock streets, Manchester.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Moore Center, 195 McGregor St. STE 400, Manchester, NH 03102, in Rita’s memory. 

To leave a message of condolence, see the obituary at www.lambertfuneralhome.com