LEWISTON – It was with grace and dignity that Rita Helen Letourneau of Greene died early Sunday, Dec. 16, at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born Nov. 19, 1922, daughter of Joseph and Marguerite Melanson. She for many years worked as a “floor supervisor” for what used to be Belle Moc Shoe. Her friends were many and spanned various age groups. To her many beloved nieces and nephews, she was known as “matenteTeTa.” Her love for them was endless and a visit from her was always considered special.

To all who knew her, she will be thought of as a “lady who always had a great smile, a wonderful sense of humor, style and a gift of flair.” To her brothers and sisters, she was “Rita the helper” always ready to lend a hand, or give words of encouragement. To her only daughter, she imparted a zest of life and an appreciation for all living things simple or grand all were equal.

To her grandchildren and all of their friends she was known as “Didi,” a unique grandmother that everyone wanted to hang out with. Her crepe breakfasts and all of her special antics will greatly be missed. If one looks toward the winter sky, you’ll see one more extra bright light and that would be “our much loved Didi,” Rita Helen Letourneau.

She is survived by her only child and daughter, Elaine Roop and her husband, Steve Roop, of Auburn; Scott Bartholomew her grandson and his wife, Nichole, of Greene; Heather Baumann her granddaughter, and her husband, Steve, of Falmouth; along with her two great-grandchildren, Jackson and Isabelle; her sister, Priscilla Gendron and husband, Dolard; her brother, “Babe” Melanson and companion, Marie LaRochelle; her sister, Jeanine Labbie: and many nieces and nephews and their children. She also had a very special extended family in Stephanie and Jesse St.Laurent and “little Eli.”

Our family would like to express a most special thank you to Dr. Michael Boulanger, Dr. Dervilla McCann and all who cared for my mom at St. Mary’s during her time of need.