Rita M. (McLaughlin) Irving, 80, of Worcester died Saturday, May 16th in Rose Monahan Hospice Home surrounded by her loving family. Her husband of 27 years Anthony “Tony” H. Irving died in 2001. She leaves three daughters, Nicole M. Ferrie, Kristen W. Binenda and her partner, Malik Hampton, and Alison D. Irving all of Worcester; two brothers, Joe McLaughlin and Alan McLaughlin and his wife, Christine; a sister, Patsy Shannon; three grandchildren, Cole, Cameron, and Nya; her best friend, Jody Wood of Worcester and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, John McLaughlin and Rita (Holt) Bagdasarian; her brother, Jack McLaughlin; her brother-in-law, Mike Shannon; and her sister-in-law, Lori McLaughlin.
Rita was a remarkable woman whose strength, determination, and vibrant spirit touched everyone who knew her. A graduate of Millis High School, she later became part of the very first adult learning class offered by Becker College. Balancing the demands of raising three children while pursuing her education, Rita often brought her children to class with her and graduated as valedictorian, a testament to her perseverance and dedication.
Rita began her professional career at Fallon Health while her children were still in school. In the 1990s, she joined Leominster Credit Union, where she became a familiar and beloved presence in the community. She proudly managed the Leominster Credit Union branch located at Wachusett Regional High School, where she especially enjoyed working with the students and helping teach them financial responsibility. Her love for the school community eventually led her to work at Wachusett Regional High School in the library and study halls, where she continued working well into her 70s.
In her younger years, Rita could often be found at Jesse Burkett Field cheering on her daughters at their softball games while spending time with “the moms,” a close-knit group of women who became lifelong friends and who still gather regularly to this day. Rita was truly a social butterfly who cherished friendship, conversation, and staying connected with others.
She loved visiting the beaches of Cape Cod, especially Chatham, where she enjoyed the beauty and peacefulness of the ocean. Rita was also a regular at Tweeds, where she enjoyed playing Keno, sharing laughs with friends, and sipping her favorite amaretto but only Disaronno.
Rita loved her independence and embraced life fully, especially enjoying drives in her convertible and being out and about right up until the end. Most of all, she treasured the time spent with her family. She especially loved watching her grandchildren play basketball and took immense pride in all of their accomplishments.
Rita will be remembered for her warmth, resilience, outgoing personality, and the love she shared so freely with family and friends.
Calling hours are Wednesday May 20th from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. in O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, followed by her funeral service at NOON. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.