Rita M. Mello

EASTHAMPTON-Rita M. Mello, 71, of Loudville Road passed away peacefully with her family at her side on Thursday, September 26, 2024. Rita was born in Northampton on May 9, 1953, a daughter of Donald R. and Jeannette (Williams) Gougeon. She was educated in Northampton schools, graduating from NHS in 1971. She furthered her education, graduating from Greenfield Community College with a Degree in Recreation and Leisure services and beginning a long career as an Elder Recreation Director. Rita worked as the Long-Term Coordinator of Recreation with Sunbridge Nursing of Northampton, then Linda Manor as Recreation Director as well as working as a certified Nursing Assistant from 1977 to 1996. Rita was a devoted communicant of St. Mary’s of the Assumption Church in Haydenville and after moving to Easthampton was a communicant of Our Lady of the Valley in Easthampton. She served as treasurer of the Boy Scouts of America and she and her husband, James were avid campers at Camperama Campground in Vermont for many years. She leaves her loving husband of 42 years, James Mello of Easthampton. Her sons; Bruce Gardner of Ashfield and Joseph Mello of Westfield. Her cherished granddaughter, Jade Gardner and grandsons Jacob & Christopher Mello. Her siblings; Patricia Mizula of Florence and Michael of Easthampton and several nieces and nephews. She was sadly predeceased by her parents and her brothers Jack and Raymond Gougeon. Calling hours at the AHEARN FUNERAL HOME OF NORTHAMPTON, 783 Bridge Rd. will be Wednesday, October 2, 2024 from 8:30 to 10:30 A.M. followed by a Liturgy of Christian burial at 11:15 A.M. at Our Lady of the Valley Church, 33 Adams St., Easthampton. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Haydenville. Donations in Rita’s memory may be made to Cancer Connection, 41 Locust Street, Northampton, MA 01060