Obituary of Rita M. MacFarlane

Rita Mary MacFarlane (nee Belliveau), beloved wife of late Arthur (Art) MacFarlane of Saint John, NB passed away on Friday, February 21, 2020 at the age of 93 years. Born in Minto, NB on October 31, 1926. Rita worked at GB Murphy jewellery in Minto, NB until she married Art on August 5, 1952.

Rita is survived by her children, Pamela Freeman (late Robert Freeman), Moncton, NB, Donald MacFarlane (Karen), Saint John, NB, Maureen MacFarlane (Dan Ackerman), Edmonton, AB, Monica Hatt (Brian), Calgary, AB, and Michelle MacFarlane (David Kersey), Halifax, NS, along with 10 precious grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. She is predeceased by her beloved husband, Arthur and son, Brian. Rita is also survived by her siblings Clarence (Luise), John (Wally), David (Marcella) and Raymond (Edna) and predeceased by Dorilla, Emery, Lorraine, Ivan, and Neta.

Rita was a loving wife, mother and Grammy. Her home was always full of family, friends and kids and there was likely a scent of homemade bread in the air and sweets on the counter. Neighbourhood women frequently popped by to work on the quilt downstairs and to chat and share laughs. Her children and grandchildren will treasure her beautiful quilts for many years to come. Teaching her kids the importance of true friendship, Rita was a member of the Women’s Stork Club Rummoli group for over 60 years: a group of friends that played together and landed on the name because of the number of children born over the years. She also loved to play Bridge with neighbours.

Arrangements are under the care of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (506) 634-7424. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Holy Redeemer Parish, 316 Somerset Street, Saint John, NB on Tuesday, February 25, 2020 at 11:00 am. Reception to follow at Brenan’s Reception Centre. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.BrenansFH.com in memory of Rita MacFarlane. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the NB Society of Retired Teachers Scholarship Fund, or any charity of your choice.