Rita M. (LeFave) Meersman, 95, of Worcester died Monday, November 11th in the Rose Monahan Hospice Residence after a brief illness surrounded by her loving family. She leaves four sons, Lawrence C. Meersman, III and his wife, Tammie of Oxford, Keith A. Meersman of Worcester, Scott F. Meersman and his wife, Mary of Charlton, and Dean P. Meersman and his wife, Cindy of Rochdale; daughter, Lori Meersman of Worcester; a step daughter Dawn Marie Tirado and her husband, Luis of Worcester; 14 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; a niece, Gale Campbell and a son-in-law Kevin Mero. She was predeceased by a daughter, Jan Mero; a grandson, Francisco Hernandez; her husband, Lawrence C. Meersman, Jr: three sisters, Pearl, Ruth, and Barbara; and a nephew, Gary Sundgren.
Born in North Adams, Rita was the daughter of Gaston and Louise (Jangrow) LeFave. Rita attended Worcester Girls Trade and spent 22 years working at Service Merchandise, retiring in 1995. She was previously known in the community as the lunch guard at Ludlow Street School, where her warmth and care were felt by students and families alike.
A member of Our Lady of the Angels Church, Rita was deeply connected to her faith and her neighborhood. She embraced every new neighbor over the years, bringing people together for gatherings filled with laughter and friendly cribbage games. Known for her warm spirit, Rita could often be found enjoying time on her front porch, where she greeted friends and watched the comings and goings of her beloved community.
Rita was an avid bowler, enjoying candlepin in her younger days and later 10-pin. She also had a passion for puzzles and would not take on one with less than 1,000 pieces. Rita had a well-known love for chocolate, which she enjoyed sharing with her family and friends, often bringing a touch of sweetness to any gathering. She cherished time with her family, and grandchildren held a special place in her heart.
Her warmth and kindness were recognized beyond her neighborhood when she received the key to the city on her 90th birthday—a fitting honor for a woman who embodied the spirit of community. Rita's legacy of love, laughter, and sweet memories will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Her funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 30th with a Mass at 10:00 a.m. in OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS CHURCH, 1222 Main Street (Please go directly to church). Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to VNA Care, Fund Development Office, Rose Monahan Hospice Residence, 100 Trade Center, Suite G-500, Woburn, MA 01801. O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, Worcester is assisting the family with arrangements.