Rita M. Scanlon

Rita M. (Lynch) Scanlon, 91, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2023. Born in Leominster, MA, on August 29, 1931, Rita was the daughter of the late William E. and Mary E. (Barry) Lynch. She was a longtime resident of East Longmeadow, MA, together with her beloved husband of 58 years, Joseph, who pre-deceased her in 2014. Rita was a graduate of Leominster High School (1949), Fitchburg State College (1953) and earned a Master’s degree at Springfield College (1958). She taught in the Springfield school system for many years, retiring in 1997. She was also a dedicated communicant of St. Michael’s Church. Rita was an invaluable supporter and contributor to civic betterment. Her volunteer efforts included the East Longmeadow Garden Club, Heritage Park playground committee, and reading to the blind. As a lifelong learner, Rita took classes at Springfield College and traveled to new locales to explore different cultures. She especially enjoyed trips to the Caribbean, Hawaii, Europe, and the Panama Canal. Rita spent many happy years of retirement with Joe at their beach home on Cape Cod and winter months in Naples, FL, where she discovered new hobbies and interests. She tutored children of migrant families, attended bible classes, participated at funerals for those who had no family or friends, and learned to play mahjong to add to her enjoyment of playing card games. Rita leaves her loving children, Mary-Anne Stearns (John) of East Longmeadow, Susan Sheridan (David) of Quincy, Michael Scanlon (Melinda) of Mahopac, NY, Barry Scanlon (Lisa) of Alexandria, VA; her beloved grandchildren, Daniel (Magali) Stearns, Carolyn (Alex) Ciaramella, Matthew and Katie Sheridan, Tommy, Natalie and Liam Scanlon, Quincy, Riley, and Harper Scanlon and special great grandchildren, Léa Marie, Noah Joseph, and Clara Rita Stearns. Calling hours will be held Thursday, January 19, 2023, from 4-7 pm at the Wilbraham Funeral Home, 2551 Boston Rd, Wilbraham. Family and friends may meet for Rita’s Funeral Mass on Friday at 12:00 Noon at St. Michael’s Church, 128 Maple St., East Longmeadow with burial to follow in the Mass. Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. Memorial donations may be made to St. Michael’s Vacation Bible School, 128 Maple St. East Longmeadow, MA 01028, or a charity of your choice.