Rita Yvonne Fitzgerald passed away peacefully on Monday, 16 September 2024. Rita was predeceased by her husband of 43 years, Martin Fitzgerald Sr. in March of 2005. Rita was born on November 30, 1936 and raised in Amesbury to her parents Leon & Evelyn (Mahair) Perusse. Rita is survived by her sister Arlene Daigle, her 3 children Martin Fitzgerald Jr. of North Carolina, Maureen (Fitzgerald) & Tim Houghton of Orlando FL and Ronald & Gail Fitzgerald of Salisbury MA. and 3 grandchildren Lauren Fitzgerald, Melissa Hoffses and Brendan Hoffses. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brothers Charles Perusse and Edward Perusse, and her sisters Doris Cote & Lena Wyatt. 

   Rita enjoyed time with family and friends, socializing at Dunkin Donuts, playing bingo, sewing, word search puzzles and knew every bus route in the surrounding area. 

   Calling hours at the E.V. Jutras & Sons Funeral Home 118 Friend St. in Amesbury, MA.will be held on Friday Sept. 20, 2024 from 12 Noon-1:30 pm followed by a prayer service. Burial will be in St. Joseph's Cemetery in Amesbury.