Sr. Rita Garneau, pm

   Sr. Rita Garneau, pm (Sr. Lucia-Marie),  85, of the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary, died September 18, 2023 at her residence in Manchester.

   She was born in Woonsocket, RI on November 27, 1937 to Eugene and Lucia (Bourre) Garneau.  She made her religious profession in 1960.

   Sr. Rita earned a bachelor’s degree at Rivier University and taught for many years in elementary schools in Rhode Island, Maine and New Hampshire.  She also worked in New Mexico for many years as a teacher and librarian. 

   She had a beautiful mission in Texas where she worked with children in crisis and supported those who cared for these children.  While in Texas, she took great pride in being responsible for a food pantry for the poor.  She returned to New England in 2010 and worked in community services.  She retired in 2012 at St. Joseph Residence in Manchester.

   She was predeceased by her parents and her brothers, Armand, Oscar and Robert and her sister, Leah Lemire.

   She is survived by a sister, Lorraine Leroux and her husband, Lucien and many nieces and nephews.

   SERVICES:  A calling hour is Friday (9/22) from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. followed immediately at 10:30 a.m. by a Mass of Christian Burial, all at the Resurrection Chapel of St. Marie Residence, 495 Mammoth Rd., Manchester.  Private burial will be at Presentation of Mary Cemetery in Hudson.

   In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Presentation of Mary Retirement Fund and mailed to 495 Mammoth Rd., Manchester, NH 03104.

   Lambert Funeral Home & Crematory, Manchester is assisting with arrangements.