Rita Tessier, 96

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Surrounded by her family, Rita "Memé" Aurora (Daigneault) Tessier, 96, of North Adams, Mass., died Wednesday, May 9, 2018, at Albany Medical Center after a brief illness.

Rita was born in Colrain, Mass., on May 27, 1921, to Phillip and Aurora (Champagne) Daigneault. The eldest of five children, Rita learned from an early age the importance of dedication to faith and family, a lesson she carried with her all through life. While raising a family and catering to rambunctious grandchildren, Rita toiled proudly at the Hoosac Cotton Mill, overseeing approximately 80 looms. After retiring from work in the local sewing industry at the age of 80, Rita continued to utilize her talents by making baby blankets for charity.

Rita was a devoted mother and grandmother, always placing the needs of others before her own. She will be remembered for her quiet strength, loving spirit, and cutthroat Rummy playing. An unassuming and pint-sized package, Rita leaves behind an enormous void in many lives.

She was the widow of Wilfred "Pepé" Wilson Tessier, who died on November 17, 1967.

Survivors include one daughter, Joan (Everett) Tatro of Bristol, Conn.; two sons, Bill (Kathryn) Tessier of North Adams and Alan (Marcia) Tessier of Williamstown; her grandchildren, Brenda Glasper, Donna Bolduc, Virginia Janick, Mary Baillargeon, James Tatro, Jason Tessier, Aubry Tessier, Michael Tessier, Stephen Tessier, James Boulger, Patricia Shartrand and Heather Gleason; many beloved great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; two great-great-great grandchildren; two sisters, Viola Batrano of South Deerfield, Mass., and Lillian Harris of Colchester, Conn.; and nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by two brothers, Eugene and Phillip Daigneault; a grandson, William "Billy" Tatro; and a great-great grandson Devon Fleeton.

Funeral notice: A Liturgy of Christina Burial for Rita Tessier will be celebrated Saturday, May 12, 2018, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church. Burial will follow in Southview Cemetery.

A calling hour at Flynn & Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, Central Chapel, 74 Marshall St., North Adams, Mass., will Saturday morning from 9 to 10 a.m.  Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital in care of the funeral home.