Rita Bernadette Santry, 87, of Nashua, and former longtime resident of Lowell and Tyngsboro, passed away on August 3, 2021 peacefully at her home with her loving family by her side. As one of the youngest of thirteen children, she was born on August 13, 1933 in Tewksbury, MA to her late parents Elisce and Bernadette (Heroux) Ouellette and educated in Wrentham Public Schools. Rita worked as a nurse at the Glenwood Care and Rehabilitation Center in Lowell until her retirement.
As a woman who touched many lives, Rita’s selfless devotion to others began in her youth. She was raised in the foster system and wholeheartedly embraced the love of many foster children throughout the years. Rita enjoyed many of life’s simple pleasures; gardening, shopping, knitting, playing bingo and the company of animals, especially her dog. She was the beloved matriarch of her family who loved spending time with family and friends. Rita touched many lives in many different circles and she will fondly be loved and missed by all.
Rita is survived by her four dear sons, Raymond Santry and his wife Elena of Nashua, Paul Santry Sr. and his wife Nicole of Lowell, MA, Nolyn Surprenant and his wife, and Jason Surprenant. She was the proud grandmother to her five grandchildren; Mackenzie, Erica, Paul Jr., Stephen and Emma. She is also survived by her two sisters; Theresa Skillings of Hollis, NH and Beatrice Wedlock of Missouri and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Rita was predeceased by ten of her siblings.
Visitation for Rita will be held on Thursday, August 5, 2021 from 4 – 7 PM at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. Friends and family are cordially invited to attend. A graveside service will be held on Friday, August 6, 2021 at 10 AM at Saint Joseph’s Cemetery, 96 Riverneck Rd, Chelmsford, MA. The family kindly requests that those who will be attending at the cemetery to meet directly there. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Rita’s memory to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, 13770 Noel Road, Suite 801889, Dallas, TX 75380 or online at https://www.komen.org/how-to-help/donate/. Arrangements under the direction of FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. www.farwellfuneralservice.com
