Rita T. (Chandonnet) Frechette, the beloved wife of the late Sylvio L. Frechette, passed away on Tuesday, June 26, 2018, surrounded by her adored family. She was 93.
Born in Lowell on June 29, 1924, Rita was the last of ten children born to Edward and Albina (Beaudoin) Chandonnet.
She and Sylvio resided in Lowell for many years prior to her moving to Dracut with her daughter and son in law.
She was a communicant of the former St. Louis de France Parish. Rita worked as a cook in the St. Louis de France Convent for many years.
As Matriarch of the Frechette family Rita cherished her role of mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was happiest when surrounded by her family.
A woman of great faith, her love of God permeated through her being. Rita lived out the Gospel in her daily life. She always said the best Gospel is not read, it is lived.
Rita had a contagious smile, welcoming spirit and a listening heart. She was non judgmental and sought after for advice. Her love of children transcended all else and kept her youthful presence throughout her life.
Survivors include eight children and spouses, Richard and Claudette Frechette of Dracut, Roger and Carmen Frechette of FL, Ronald and Karen Frechette of Rochester, NH, Robert and Anne Frechette of Tyngsboro, John and Tracy Frechette of Hudson, NH, Denise Frechette of Dracut, Sr. Jeanne Frechette, SASV of Dracut, Gloria and Dennis Daneau of Dracut; a daughter in law, Thelma Frechette of Dracut; 16 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and expecting her 20th in August; and several nieces and nephews. She was the mother of the late Leo Frechette and sister of the late Edward, Raymond, Jerry, Emile, Arthur, Robert, Claire, Sr. Ida Chandonnet and Alice Cote.
Relatives and friends are invited to Rita's Life Celebration at the McKENNA-OUELLETTE FUNERAL HOME, 327 Hildreth Street, from 4 until 8 PM on Thursday. Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday at 10:00 AM in St. Francis Parish, 115 Wheeler Rd, Dracut. Burial in St. Joseph Cemetery. Donations in Rita's memory may be made to St. Francis Parish Homeless Ministry, PO Box 609, Dracut, MA 01826.