Rita T. Lussier

Rita T. Lussier (Lessard), aged 97, passed away peacefully in the presence of her loving family on September 5, 2024, in her hometown of Lowell, MA after a period of declining health. Born on June 15, 1927, also in Lowell, MA. She was a lifelong resident and a cornerstone of her community.

Rita dedicated her life to her family, embodying the role of a nurturing and loving matriarch. She was a devoted mother to her two sons Gerald and his wife Maureen Lussier of Milford, NH; Robert and his wife Joette Lussier of Dracut, MA; and her daughter Denise (Lussier) Poirier and husband Norman Poirier of Tyngsboro, MA. Her role expanded lovingly to that of grandmother to Cheri Gratton (Lussier), Jeffrey Lussier, Joshua Cable, Danielle DeBoer (Lussier), and Allison Scott (Lussier), along with being a great-grandmother to eight and a great-great-grandmother to one.

Rita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leon Lussier, in 1996; and her siblings, Roland Lessard, Lucille Lessard Azarowski, Estelle Lessard Lapointe, Robert Lessard, and Raymond Lessard.

Rita’s family was the center of her world. As a stay-at-home mom and housewife, Rita cherished her role as the heart of her household. She lovingly raised her three children: Jerry, Bob, and Denise, instilling in them values of kindness, respect, and perseverance. Her children were her pride and joy, and she took immense satisfaction in supporting them through every stage of their lives.

Rita also shared a deep, enduring bond with her husband Leon, to whom she was married for 51 years. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and treasured memories.

Rita, lovingly known as Memere, cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren. They often enjoyed weekends together, taking trips on the city bus to downtown Lowell. These outings were filled with sweet moments—milkshakes at Brigham’s Ice Cream and special treats at Woolworth’s—making each grandchild feel truly special and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Rita’s nurturing spirit radiated through in her hobbies, from crafting and baking to creating beautiful flower arrangements. She took great care in making her home a warm and inviting space, always ready to welcome friends and family. She had a special gift for staying connected with loved ones through social media, always sharing and celebrating every important family milestone. Rita took great pride in her appearance, always looking impeccably polished and never without her signature pink lipstick.

Relatives and friends are invited to join in celebrating Rita’s life on Tuesday, September 10, from 9 AM to 11 AM at the McKenna-Ouellette Funeral Home, 327 Hildreth Street, Lowell. Funeral Services will commence at 11 AM in the Funeral Home, followed by burial at St. Joseph Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Rita’s memory can be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research at michaeljfox.org.