NORTH ADAMS, Mass. —  On July 3, 2026 Rita J. (Gallagher) Stanton Chapman left this earth at the age of 90 to be with her beloved husband, Francis (Chip) Chapman who predeceased her on August 15, 2010. Their life filled with travel and local activities and hobbies. They were married 34 years. Rita’s greatest joy in life was spending time with her family.

Rita was born July 10, 1935 in Hoosick Falls, NY to John Gallagher (1896-1968) and Elizabeth Bogardus Gallagher (1902-1985). Rita’s siblings all predeceased her including four brothers, Johnny Gallagher, Bobby Gallagher, Francis Gallagher and Joseph Gallagher, also three sisters, Margaret Sausville, Betty Irick and Mary Viens. Rita’s first husband predeceased her, Robert Stanton of North Adams, MA; they shared three children. Rita worked in Sprague Electric Company, Howard Johnson’s Restaurant, British Maid Restaurant and Jaeger House Restaurant. She then devoted herself lovingly and compassionately to the care of her daughter.

Rita is survived by her loving family. Her children, John (Diane) Stanton of Amherst, MA, Susie Stanton of Williamstown, MA, and Steve Stanton of Merritt Island, FL. Her grandchildren, Chris (Jodi) Stanton of Granby, MA, Jason (Ellyana) Stanton of Belchertown, MA and Michael Stanton of Merritt Island, FL. She also has great grandchildren, Ava Stanton, Daniel Stanton, Nava Stanton and Leo Stanton and step-grandchildren, Jillian Jaiman and Joey Jaiman of Orlando, FL. Other family including sister-in-law Patricia (Leon) Lescarbeau of North Adams, MA and many nieces and nephews and friends.

Per Rita’s wishes, there will not be any public funeral services. Burial in Southview Cemetery will be at a future date to be determined. To add to the book of memories please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com