Rita T. Coleman

Sept. 9th.

She was born in Baltic, CT on Oct. 11, 1928 to the late Joseph and Delia Charron

Arpin. After completing high school she married Francis H. Coleman on May 4th, 1957.

He predeceased her.

Rita dedicated her life to her children throughout their childhood, adolescent

tribulations, and adult years. With meticulous care, compassion and endless love, she

provided a loving environment despite the many challenges of juggling a single budget

with four children. An enthusiastic cook, memories of Rita always making special

meals for her family, neighborhood children and visitors gave her immense joy.

Sunday meals were especially important to Rita as the family looked forward to these

gatherings. Holidays were always special as Rita would begin baking all her children's

favorite cookies, dishes, and her special “ green stuff”. She always went without her

own necessities to assure her children were provided for. These selfless acts were

endless.

Rita was a very compassionate person, admired for having a tremendous amount of

patience. She had the patience of a saint and was admired for never using a curse

word, ever. Her strong spiritual upbringing was the foundation which emulated her

moral compass throughout her life. This moral compass was transferred to her

children.

Rita was a dedicated Red Sox fan throughout her life. Watching each game gave her

such enjoyment. “Big Papi” was her favorite player. She enjoyed visiting the casino’s in

her latter years, frequently joining her sister for the day. This self- indulgence gave

her great pleasure, winning from her “favorite machines” was always a captivating

story. Rita also enjoyed spending time at the beach with her family. She especially

enjoyed visits to Noank, eating her favorite foods; such as lobster, fritters, and

chowder while watching the boats pass by.

Rita enjoyed spending time with each of her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Numerous stories of the grandchildren indulging in special treats such as special ice

cream sundaes, soda, and home baked cookies, are just a few examples of their

Grandmothers kindness. Overnight visits precipitated in extended bedtime hours,

special forts made out of sheets with special lighting. Visits to Friendly’s restaurant,

dollar tree store, and other shopping trips were memorable events, fondly reflected to

this day.

She is survived by her sons; John Coleman of Norwich and wife Donna, Timothy and

wife Patricia Coleman of Windham Center, daughters; Cathleen Mulcahy and husband

Michael of Lebanon, Tracy Way of Niantic; sister Mel Tetreault of Baltic, Grandchildren;

Rebecca Coleman, Josh Way,Ryan Bernat, Shawn Muclahy, Marissa Way, Kaitlyn

Mulcahy, and John Francis Coleman, great grandchildren, Larry, Alexia, Khalin, and

Jacob and numerous nieces and nephews. Besides her husband Francis, Rita was also

predeceased by her brother Henry Arpin, sisters; Blanche Lavoie, Alice Andrew, Betrice

Mason and Doris Arpin along with her canine companion, “Brandy” who gave her much

joy throughout the years

You were the sunlight in our day, You are the moon we see far away. You are the tree

we lean upon, You are the one that makes troubles be gone. You are the one who

taught us life, How not to fight, and what is right. You are the words inside our song,

You are our love, our life, our mom. You are the one who cares for us, You are the

eyes that help us see. You are the one who knows us best, When it's time to have fun

and time to rest. You are the one who has helped us to dream, You hear our heart and

you hear our screams. Afraid of life but looking for love, we’re blessed for God sent

you from above. You are our friend, our heart, and our souls. You are the greatest

friend we know. You are the words inside our song, You are our love, our life, our

Mom. The best mom, grandmother and great-grandmother, ever!

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, Sept. 19th, from 5pm-7pm at

the Church & Allen Funeral Home, 136 Sachem St., Norwich with a Memorial Service at

7pm for family and friends. Burial is private at the convenience of the family.

To leave a condolence, please visit www.churchandallen.com