Obituary of Rita J. Melanson

With great sadness and an appreciation for a life well-lived, I announce the passing of my mother, Rita J. (Kiley) Melanson, on Thursday, July 25, 2019 at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Born in Saint John in October of 1925, she was a daughter of the late Michael and Annie (McGouey) Kiley.  She was a loving wife and mother, a devoted sister and true friend. 

Rita was a stay-at-home mum.  She loved to sing, play piano and skate.  She and my Dad would never miss the Sunday and Wednesday night skates at the Lancaster Centennial Arena.  Mom spent many years travelling between Saint John and Chicago for her husband’s work.  She enjoyed the big city and she liked nothing more than sitting in Wrigley Field watching a ballgame.  We had many adventures as a family and I cherish them all. 

Rita is survived by her daughter, Judy Melanson and several nieces and nephews who each held a special place in her heart.  Along with her parents, Rita is predeceased by her husband of 56 years, Allan.  As the last surviving sibling, she is predeceased by her brothers: William, Leo, Patrick, Urban and David; her sisters: Marion, Ellen, Regina and Margaret.

Special thanks to her caregivers, Nicole, Patty, Carolyn and Beverly.  These ladies made it possible for me to keep Mum at home just as she wished.  To the staff of 3DS, Burns and Plastic Unit at the Saint John Regional Hospital, I express my utmost gratitude for the care they provided, the compassion they showed and the support they gave to my mother and me.  They truly are a remarkable group.

Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (634-7424) with visitation on Saturday, July 27, 2019 from 6 -8 pm, and Sunday, July 28, 2019 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated from Holy Spirit Parish (St. Rose of Lima), 541 Milford Road, Saint John, NB on Monday, July 29, 2019 at 10:00 am. Interment will take place at St. Joseph’s Cemetery. For those who wish, remembrances may be made to the Kelly Ann Ingalls Memorial Scholarship Fund.