LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. – Rita Florence Blackerby, 89 and 11/12 th’s years old, passed away peacefully with family by her side. Rita was a resident of Lawrenceville, Ga., having lived there for several years.

Rita was born in Lewiston, the daughter of Roland Wilfred Marois (son of Henri Marois of Marois Restaurant on Lisbon Street, Lewiston) and Cecil Lorensa Doucette.

Rita’s life unfolded through many chapters, with the arts holding a special place among her passions. For many years she taught art to children of any age, as well as adults. Rita was a true artist, painting in watercolors and oils, drawing with charcoal, working with clay, drawing with colored pencils. If it was “art”, she would try it till she mastered it. One of her legacies is that she left behind for her prodigy many different pieces for them to have and to cherish.

Rita loved people. This isn’t just a trite statement, but one that expressed itself in the way that she treated anyone she met. Even upon first meeting someone, they would receive a hug instead of a handshake. Her friendships were many and varied, and lasted throughout life.

Rita also had a passion for poker, frequently competing in tournaments where she became well-known for her skill and for winning many events. This was an accomplishment that she was very proud of.

Such a brief document as an obituary cannot truly contain all that was the true essence of a loving mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to so many people whose lives she touched with her special brand of love. She will be truly missed by all. Heaven gained an angel when Rita left this earth.

She was predeceased by her husband, Melvin Lee Blackerby; and her sister, Lorraine LaCouture.

She is survived by two sisters, Pauline Raymond and Patricia Rawls, both of Lewiston, and her children, Daniel Blackerby of Lewiston ME, Thomas Pepin of Lisbon ME, Mark Pepin of Lebanon, ME. Peter Blackerby of Tampa FL., Mary Blackerby of Poland Me, Paula Caldwell of Lawrenceville GA, Paul Blackerby of Auburn ME, and John Blackerby of Gainesville GA, as well as 22 grandchildren and 41 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren, along with many, many nieces, nephews, and cousins across the globe.