Rita L. (Grace) Reynolds, 69 years, of Brockton, died February 23, 2009. Born and raised in Boston, daughter of the late Chandler T. and Mary C. (Hess) Grace. Rita had been employed at A.P.R. in Mattapan through the 1960’s and also worked as an armed security officer at Pilgrim One Nuclear power plant in Plymouth. Rita had been a resident of Brockton since 1979.
She was proud of her military service in the Massachusetts Army National Guard and served in the 772 Military Police Unit in Plymouth, where she attained the rank of Sergeant. Rita was one of the first women to serve in this unit. She participated in anti terrorism and building assault drills. Her unit was activated to assist the Boston Police Department in maintaining order during the desegregation and forced bussing of the Boston public school system by order of a Federal Court.
Rita was assigned to and participated in a special security detail to protect Queen Elizabeth during her visit to the city of Boston and was complimented by the FBI for her professionalism.
She is survived by her daughter Robin Gandara of Houston, TX, Sean and Tamie Reynolds of Middleboro, Paul Reynolds of Brockton and Patrick and Angela Reynolds of Taunton; grandchildren Kerry and Sandra Reynolds, Keara and Kaylie Reynolds of Middleboro, Rita, Samuel, Suzanna and Isaac of Houston, TX; several great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; her brother Joseph Grace and his wife Elisabeth and Hortencia Hernandez of Boston. She was loved by all.
A Memorial Service was held in the Conley Funeral Home, Brockton.