Obituary of Rita M. Smith

Rita Marie Aurora Lafontaine Smith, our much loved mother decided to follow the Star of Bethlehem to her eternal rest on December 21, 2020. She passed peacefully in her sleep while under the dedicated care of the staff at The Carolton of Fairfield. A special thank you to them all for their warmth, understanding, and support over the years. Rita was born on February 18, 1928, in Woonsocket, RI. She was the fifth of nine children born to the late Damase and Alberta Fortier Lafontaine. She was predeceased by one sister, Beatrice Cote, and four brothers: Emile, Albert, Julian, and David Lafontaine. Three beloved sisters remain to mourn her loss: Laura Williamson, Bernadette Kent, and Cecile Cone. Rita was a life-long resident of Bridgeport. She met many struggles along the way, but always lived by the motto she taught us--"Stay strong, don't give up!" Family was very important to her, and she always put the needs of her children first. She didn't often express her love in words; her deeds spoke for her. She proudly served for many years as treasurer of the Catholic War Veterans Auxiliary. Rita worked as a bookkeeper for Beechmont Dairy and as an assembly technician at Beckson Mfg. In her free time, she enjoyed quiet pursuits such as reading, playing cards, and working crossword puzzles. She was predeceased by her husband, Hepburn (Buddy) Smith. She will always be remembered by her children, Karen (Chuck, dec) Riordan of Niceville, FL, Richard (Josephine) Smith of Anza, CA, Gail (Michael) Blomberg of Watertown, CT, and Michael (Melissa) Smith of Salem, CT. She leaves behind ten grandchildren, Keegan Smith, Tessa Smith Vergara, Jennifer Blomberg Miller, Michael Blomberg II, Daniel Blomberg, Steven Blomberg, Tristan Smith, Mikayla Smith, Michelle Riordan, and Charlie Riordan; and many great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. There are no services scheduled at this time. A memorial mass will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), www.dav.org