Rita G. (Ferris) O’Leary, 93, of Worcester died Thursday, January 31st in Notre Dame Long Term Care Center. Her beloved husband of 65 years, Robert E. O’Leary, Sr. died in 2018. She leaves three sons, Joseph O'Leary and his significant other, Claudette Herbert of Worcester, Dennis O'Leary and his wife, Dena of Grafton and Robert O'Leary, Jr., and his significant other, Kirsten Kimball of Oxford; four daughters, Mary O'Leary and her significant other, Kelly of Miami, Ann Hoyt and her husband, John of Rye, NH, Barbara Hogan and her husband, Jay of Charlton and Beth Anish and her husband, Ron of Auburn; a brother, George Ferris of Nashua, NH; a brother in law, Robert Bean; 16 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a daughter, Ruth O’Leary; two brothers, Paul Ferris and Robert Ferris; three sisters, Helen Murdock, Hazel Papale and Barbara Bean.
She was born in Milford the daughter of George and Ellen (Best) Ferris. Rita retired in 1991 from the Worcester Public Schools where she worked as a secretary for 12 years. She previously worked in the offices of Rockwood Sprinkler and Smith Valve. After retiring, Rita continued to help out where needed in the schools. She enjoyed everyone she met while working with the Worcester Public Schools. She was a member of Our Lady of the Angels Church where she was a member for over 60 years. Rita graduated with the class of 1944 from the former High School of Commerce in Worcester. In her 70’s, Rita earned an Associates Degree from Quinsigamond Community College and at the age of 79 she earned a Bachelor’s Degree for Worcester State University with a major in Urban Studies and a minor in Art. Rita’s favorite pastimes were spending time with her husband, Bob and her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
The family would like to thank the Staff and Sisters of Notre Dame for the compassion and kindness Rita received during her residence there.
Her funeral is Monday, February 4th from O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue with a Mass at 12:00 Noon in Our Lady of the Angels Church, 1222 Main Street. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery. Calling hours are Sunday, February 3rd from 2:00 until 4:00 PM in the funeral home.