Rita Theresa Despres

AUBURN – Rita T. Despres 95, of Auburn, died Wednesday April 19, 2023, with her loving family at her side.

Rita was born in Dover, N.H., into a big family. She lived in Dover until meeting her husband, Joe, at a dance at UNH. They lived briefly in North Carolina, then moved to Turner, Maine, when Joe was offered a job at Brigeen Farms. They lived in Turner for the rest of their working lives, and raised six children. Rita cared for her children and worked cleaning houses for friends in Turner, as well as apple picking and packing at Prince’s Orchards, and Leavitt Orchards.

In 2010, when Joe needed nursing home care, Rita moved to Auburn with her daughter, Julie, to be closer to Joe.

She loved her family and friends, and most of all, her husband, Joe. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren gave her much joy. She had a quick wit, an empathetic ear, and amazing energy. She will be dearly missed by her children, Joseph and partner Jan; Kathy and husband Kevin; daughters Julie, Patty, and Lisa; former daughter-in-law and dear friend of the family, Kathy; her grandchildren Matt and wife Becca; Brian and wife Sarah; and her great grandchildren, Sonny and Levon.

She was predeceased by her husband Joe, and her son Peter.

Online condolences can be shared at http://www.thefortingroupauburn.com.

Visitation will be held on Saturday May 20, from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., with the service to follow at 12 p.m., noon, all at The Fortin Group in Auburn. Committal will follow at North Auburn Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the Direction Of The Fortin Group Funeral Homes 217 Turner St. Auburn 783-8545.