With love and remembrance, we share the passing of Rita Jean Gelinas of Acushnet, Massachusetts, who passed away on December 28, 2025, at the age of 63. Rita was born on March 27, 1962. She was incredibly creative and had a strong, determined character. She had a talent for floral design, and she loved to crochet. Rita had a strong sense of style and loved fashion, always expressing herself through the way she dressed. She loved Betty Boop and her classic charm, which fit her personality perfectly. Rita adored her Yorkies Lizzie, Jean Pierre, Buster, Gracie, and Peanut, and loved dressing them up. They were her companions and a source of comfort for her. Rita also resided in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where she and her husband, Phillip, shared a condo. She loved spending time there and especially cherished time with her grandson, Ayden, who meant the world to her.
Rita was predeceased by her husband, Phillip Gelinas of Acushnet, Massachusetts. She is survived by her son, Aaron Gelinas of Acushnet, Massachusetts; her grandson, Ayden Gelinas of Acushnet, Massachusetts; her parents, George and Pauline Manny of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; her brothers, Roland Manny and his wife Julie of Marysville, Ohio, Roger Manny and his wife Bethany of Dartmouth, Massachusetts, and Robert Manny and his wife Anna of Freetown, Massachusetts; along with her beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family.
A joint memorial service for Rita and Phillip Gelinas will be held on February 7 at 10:00 a.m. at Pacific Union Congregational Church, 526 Old County Road, Westport, Massachusetts.
Rita will be remembered by her family and those who knew her.