WHITINSVILLE: Rita E. (Manning) Smith, 87, died peacefully and comfortably on Sunday morning, November 9, 2014 at her residence surrounded by those she loved.
She was born in Gloucester on September 8, 1927 the daughter of the late Thomas Manning and Frances (Clancy) Manning.
She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 66 years, Glen G. Smith of Whitinsville. Cherished mother of Constance Wight and her husband Don Wight of Berlin; Laura Fantini and her husband Bob Fantini of Hopedale; Chris Smith and his wife Stephanie Smith of San Leandro, CA and Wade Smith and his wife Marianne Smith of Wellesley. Sister of Tom Manning, Jr. of Portland, CT and Rachel Wiltsie of Old Saybrook, CT. Also survived by 9 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Rita spent her formative years in Gloucester before her family relocated to Connecticut. She and her husband Glen resided in Framingham for over 42 years and retired to Naples, FL. Most recently they have resided in Whitinsville.
She and her husband Glen were the owners of Banner Door in Berlin for over 25 years and she served as the Administrative Assistant before retiring in 1999. She and Glen were strong supporters of youth and were active former members of the Wellesley Park Assembly of God Church. They were founders and supporters of Bridge House Ministry in Framingham. They devoted a lifetime to the care and well being of others especially youth.
Memorial visitations will be held on Friday, November 14, 2014 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at the Liberty Church, 495 Hartford Turnpike (Route 9), Shrewsbury.
A Memorial Service celebrating her life will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2014 at 2:00 pm at the Liberty Church with her grandson the Reverend Derek Wight officiating.
Private interment will be held at the convenience of her family.
In lieu of flowers, her family kindly suggests that memorial donations in Rita’s memory may be made to a church youth group of their choice or The Bridge House, POB 136, Framingham, MA 01704.