Methuen, MA – Rita V. “Reet” (Ward) Stepanian, 86, of Methuen, died peacefully at her home on Friday, March 7, 2014. She was the wife of the late Samuel Stepanian.
Born in Lawrence, MA, she was the eldest daughter of the late John and Evelyn (Berthel) Ward. Rita was educated in the Methuen school system and graduated from the Edward F. Searles High School, Class of 1945.
Rita was a dedicated caregiver to numerous children who adored her. She loved Methuen and could often be found walking through town with her sisters, Mary & Ann, and her young charges. She enjoyed the outdoors and loved bird watching at the Black Rocks, Salisbury Beach as well as attending baseball games at the Pelham St. baseball field.
Rita leaves her children Linda Stepanian, Billy Bee, Paula Stepanian, and John Stepanian and her grandchildren Hailey, Samuel and Caleb. She will be deeply missed by her loving sister, Mary (Ward) Faucher of Belgrade, Maine, as well as her numerous nieces and nephews.
Rita was predeceased by her sister Ann (Ward) Garrity and her brothers John, James, Francis, William and Thomas.
Per Rita’s wishes, services were held privately.