Rita Prosperie, age 93, of Lumberton, Texas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Born in Union, Louisiana on March 4, 1932, to Sydney Hotard and Olympe Chauvin, Rita lived a life defined by devotion to her faith, her family, and the traditions she so lovingly upheld.
A devout Catholic, Rita never missed a Sunday Mass. Her deep faith was a guiding force throughout her life and a source of strength to all who knew her. But above all, Rita was devoted to her family. Her home was a beacon of warmth, especially during the holidays when it would overflow with love, laughter, and more than 50 family members at times. Her Cajun cooking was legendary—so beloved that leftovers were virtually unheard of in her home. Mealtime was not just about food; it was about bringing people together, something Rita did with exceptional grace.
Rita married her sweetheart, Roy James Prosperie, at the age of 18, beginning a beautiful journey of love and companionship that lasted 75 years until his passing. Their bond was unshakable. Rita was a devoted wife, always caring for Roy with tenderness and love. He adored her, and it was often said he would have been lost without her.
Rita had an unmistakable elegance—always well put together, never stepping outside without her jewelry. She had a natural eye for style and a true talent for decorating. Every holiday, her home would transform into a reflection of the season, complete with thoughtful details and personal touches that made every gathering special.
A skilled seamstress, Rita sewed her children’s clothes when they were young, adding her own touch of love to everything she created. Her legacy is stitched into every memory shared, every tradition passed down, and every warm gathering around the table.
She was a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose presence lit up the lives of all who knew her. Though she has left this world, her spirit will live on in the faith, food, and family she so dearly loved.
Rita is survived by her daughter Diane Kennedy (Richard); her daughter Jane Hicks (Larry); her daughter Brenda Soileau (Charlie); her daughter Connie McNeer (Mike); her son Joseph Prosperie (Debbie); her son Danny Prosperie (Julie); her son Robert Prosperie (Letty); and her daughter-in-law Cathy Prosperie.
Rita was preceded in death by her husband Roy James Prosperie; her son Roy James Prosperie Jr; her father Sydney Hotard and her mother Olympe Chauvin; her brother Sidney Hotard, her brother Leo Hotard, her brother John Hotard, her brother Joe Hotard, her sister Marie Labatut, her sister Dotsy Prosperie and her sister Sister Mary John.
Rita also leaves behind a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren to cherish her memory
A visitation for Rita will be held Tuesday, May 6, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St James Catholic Church. A catholic funeral mass to celebrate the life of Rita will occur Tuesday, May 6, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 3617 Gulfway Drive, Port Arthur, Texas 77642. A graveside service will occur Tuesday, May 6, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 3900 Twin City Highway, Groves, TX.
