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Mrs. Rita Irene Agnew

April 7, 1944  -  November 1, 2007


 

Rita Agnew, 63, of Moncton, with her family at her side, passed away peacefully at the Moncton Hospital on November 1, 2007. Born in Rollet, Quebec, daughter of Doris (St. Amour) Vaillant and the late Leo Vaillant, loving wife of Glen Agnew, proud and loving mother of Brian Agnew (Lori), Carrie Bauer (Bruce), Jason Agnew (Karen) and her treasured friend Lu of Moncton. She was the proud and devoted grandmother of Nicholas, Jessica, Rebecca, Brody, Ben, Jacob, Emma and Eyan. She will be sadly missed by siblings Annette (Dave), Henri, Pauline (Bob), Carmen (Victor), Daniel (Louise) and Marie (Robert). She is also survived by a beloved extended family. She was predeceased by her father Leo Vaillant, infant sister Lucienne and infant granddaughter Rebecca.
She was an employee of MCRI for 29 years as well as an active coach, volunteer and mentor for all Special Olympians. She enjoyed her biannual trip to Sandals Montego Bay with her beloved husband. She lived life to the fullest, motivitated by her love and commitment to her family and friends.
Her family and friends will agree that “she was one brave and tough broad”. Her courageous six and a half year battle with her illness is an inspiration to all who knew her or had the privilege to come in contact with her. Rita’s true testament is the friends and relationships that she leaves behind.
Visitation will be held at Fair Haven Funeral Home, 1177 Salisbury Road, Moncton (506) 852-3530 on Sunday, November 4th from 7-9 pm; Monday, November 5th from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 6th from Fair Haven Funeral Home Chapel at 1 pm with reception to follow.
In Rita’s memories donations to the Moncton Brain Tumour Foundation or Special Olympics Southeast would be appreciated.




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Condolences:

Title: Friends

Comment: Our deepest sympathies to Glen and family.Rita was a lady you only meet once in a lifetime.

Doug  and Karen Pond
Fredericton

Submitted: 03/11/2007 8:35:03 AM


Title: Sincere Sympathy

Comment:

Glen, Family and Lu,

We are so very sorry to hear of Rita's passing. Sandy and I have you all in our thoughts and prayers at this very sad time. The obituary was so nice and it's evident that Rita was loved by so many people. If there is anything that Sandy and I can do please let us know.

Val Cormier

 

 

Submitted: 03/11/2007 8:41:18 AM


Title: From the Corbett's

Comment: Our sincere condolences go out to you and your family.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to you in these difficult times.

Submitted: 03/11/2007 9:19:59 AM


Title: Glenn & family

Comment:

I would like to offer you my deepest and sincere condolences in the passing of Rita.  I have good memories of her especially during hockey season -  she was such a jolly person.

I admire all the volunteerism with the Special Olympics and at the same time coping with her illness. 

Because of prior commitments, I will not be able to visit nor attend the funeral service but my thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Bernice Holmes

Submitted: 03/11/2007 10:49:54 AM


Title: Glen and family.

Comment: Please accept our deepest sympathy. I have followed Rita's illness through family and she certainly put up a good fight.  Our thoughts are with you.    Shirley and John Stratton

Submitted: 03/11/2007 11:12:07 AM


Title: Rita Agnew

Comment:

Glen and Family,

Elizabeth, Carrigan, Noah and myself were saddened to hear of the passing of our friend, Rita. It's not often in life that one is able to meet a person with nothing but love in her heart. Rita was one of those few people. She fought a good fight and I know she would want us to celebrate her life and keep smiling. Please know that our thoughts are with you and your family as you begin a new chapter.

Goodbye Rita

The Desjardins

   

Submitted: 03/11/2007 11:32:59 AM


Title: Thinking of you

Comment:

We will remember Rita during many happy times in Jamaica.  Our thoughts are you with you Glen, and the family.

Gaile & Rob Maddigan, Nova Scotia

Submitted: 03/11/2007 2:05:48 PM


Title: The Family of the late Rita Agnew

Comment:

Glen and family,

So sorry to hear of Rita's death .  She was such a great lady , never frowning , always so happy.  Always ready with a hug ! She sure was a fighter.

My sincere sympathies ,  Marla

Submitted: 03/11/2007 2:58:45 PM


Title: Bessie Jackson...Sister of Marilyn Lovelock from Memphis, Tn. USA

Comment:

I am writing to express my sincere sympathy on the loss of your beloved Reta.  I have never met you , but cannot express how much I know both Glen and Reta meant to my sister Marilyn Lovelock.  They were like another Mom and Dad to her, and I know she will be very affected by Reta's death. 

Thank you all so much for all you've done for her, and again my prayers are with you and your family at this time.  

Bessie Jackson

Memphis, Tn. USA

pnguingal@aol.com

Submitted: 03/11/2007 3:21:41 PM


Title: For Rita Agnew

Comment: I recently sent an ebitutary for Mrs. Rita Agnew, and I don't know if it was done correctly, Please look for it from Bessie Jackson, Memphis, Tn.

Submitted: 03/11/2007 3:28:17 PM


Title: To my favourite fellow "Assistant Coach" ...

Comment:

My love and best wishes are extended to the entire Agnew family. My only regret is that I am not there but if I told her I was coming home right now from Edmonton, she would give me heck for making a fuss over her. Rita was a truly special lady ... she touched so many lives. Her dedication to Special Olympics was true and sincere. Even when she wasn't well, she still did everything she could to help the athletes and coaches be the best people they can be. She was truly an inspiration to me and will be deeply missed. As I sit and write this note, I am having a cup of tea in her honour! As I continue to coach with Special Olympics here in Edmonton - I will do what I can to make her proud and continue on the good work she has done. I love you and I miss you Rita.

Love and Prayers,

Tina Copp (Edmonton, AB)

Submitted: 03/11/2007 4:02:27 PM


Title: Rita

Comment:

I am very sorry to hear about Rita.  I am honored to have had the pleasure of knowing Rita and couldn't help but feel like I was part of her family.  She was a warm, caring, loving, special and unbelievable lady.  She has touched many, many lives and is going to be greatly missed. She was certainly a mother to many people and a very strong lady to all who knew her. 

She will never be forgotten.

Kim Crossman

Submitted: 03/11/2007 7:14:21 PM


Title: Dear Glen and Family

Comment: Thinking of you at this very low period. Bob and Linda Moore (Old Moncton hockey parents)

Submitted: 04/11/2007 6:32:46 AM


Title: For Rita

Comment: She will always be in our thoughts and prayers.  The world has lost one great,passionate, strong-willed woman. Love to all.

Steve & Marilyn Savoy.

Submitted: 04/11/2007 9:27:47 AM


Title: Rita Agnew

Comment:

Dear Glen,

             My deepest sympathy. Rita was agraet person, which you already know, and have heard many of times already. My deepest thoughts are with you in your time of need.               Margaret Tucker ,Claude & Pam

Submitted: 04/11/2007 10:20:43 AM


Title: Remembering Rita

Comment:

Glenn, Lu and family

We wanted to pass on our sympathies on the untimely passing of Rita,. Yes she was " one tough and brave broad" ! All of us will lovingly remember her ready smile and her hugs as well as her willingness to do whatever it took to help.

Special Olympics in New Brunswick and especially in Moncton will be a poorer place without her.

Sadly we will be unable to get dowm to Moncton to visit( Jennifer was supposed to go to a swim meet today that was cancelled , so we initially thought we might get down) but we wanted to send our regrds and to let you know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I trust that the many happy memories of a life well lived and deicated to helping others will help to sustain you through these difficult times.

Les, Judy and Jennifer Jackson

Submitted: 04/11/2007 3:37:16 PM


Title: My Thoughts are With You

Comment:

Glen & Family,

My Deepest Sympathy to you all.  Rita was a great lady with a big heart.  It was a pleasure to know her.   She was so kind and I know how much she loved to write her Santa Letters and make them special for each child. 

My thoughts are with you.

Carmel Richard

 

Submitted: 04/11/2007 4:43:56 PM


Title: To an amazing women and a great leader.

Comment:

Rita Agnew

Those who knew her were the fortunate ones and those who didn't know her have heard of her.  She was a wonderful women and a leader for us all to look up to.  She stood for all that is missing from the world today and always brought light into everyones day.  She could make you smile and feel good on your worst day.  Rita you will be missed so much by so many but I know that god needs special angels like you on his team. 

John Ayles

Submitted: 04/11/2007 6:56:59 PM


Title: To the Agnew Family

Comment:

I was so sorry to hear about Rita.  I have very fond memories of the Agnew Family spending time with our family at the cottage in Cocagne.  She will be remembered as a loving, fun and wonderful person.  My condolences to the Agnew Family during this time.

Sincerely,

Heather (Leger) Curl

Submitted: 04/11/2007 8:07:45 PM


Title: Rob Jones, MFA

Comment:

We are very sorry to hear of the loss of your mother and grandmother.  You are in our thoughts and prayers.

From your Moncton Football Association Family

Submitted: 04/11/2007 8:22:43 PM


Title: In Sympathy to Karen and family

Comment:

Karen, I just read today that you have lost your mother-in-law.  How strange that we would both lose our mothers-in-law on the same day.  We too are morning a great lady and want you to know that we know how painful your loss must be.  Thinking of you today and praying that God will comfort you at this very difficult time in your lives.  Love to Jason and the children.

Cousin Estella (Bryan & Denise)

Submitted: 04/11/2007 9:31:03 PM


Title: Deepest Sympathy Rita Agnew

Comment:

Glen & Family

It was a shock to get news from Rose that your wonderful wife Rita had died.  My heart aches for you, as you were such a wonderful team. I always thought why couldn't we be like you both.  You had a wonderful life together and God blessed you with wonderful children, and grandchildren.  Rita enjoyed life to the fullest.  She was a inspiration for us all.  Time was never wasted on feeling sorry for herself, she always talk herself to moving forward.

Glen now the hard work will start for you all as you start your life without Rita.  All I can say that that God has another plan for you.  Be brave and walk the path, as you know Rita will always be by your side.  Again my deepest sympathy.

 

Linda & Barry Brown

Submitted: 05/11/2007 7:12:21 AM


Title: With Sympathy

Comment:

Our condolences to you and your family on your time of loss.  You are in our hearts and wishes....

 Forever remembered,

Laura MacLellan and Andy Hart

 

 

Submitted: 05/11/2007 9:24:13 AM


Title: The Agnew Family

Comment:

Farewell to a very special person.  Rita will be missed by all the Special Olympians and by all who knew her.  Sincere condolences to Glen and all of the family.

 

Gerry & Helen Bond

Pointe Du Chene

Submitted: 05/11/2007 10:02:49 AM


Title: The Foster Family

Comment:

We will always remember Rita's passion for her family and friends. We met Rita when we were  very young and newly married ...IWewill never forget the lessons we learned on how to relate to our family and friends from Rita ...A true friend ..

We will miss you Rita ....God has something else planned for you now ...

Love David , Mary Jane , Matthew and Jacquelyn

 

.

Submitted: 05/11/2007 12:45:51 PM


Title: In sympathy to Brian and Family

Comment:

We are sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. You and your family are in our thought and prayers at this difficult time.

 

Richard & Tina (Price) Melanson 

Submitted: 05/11/2007 3:22:42 PM


Title: Glen,Brian and family

Comment:

We were sad to hear about Rita. We are thinking about you and we offer our deepest sympathy. She was a real fighter. Take care.

Michel (Chico) and Monique Doucet of Bathurst, NB.

Submitted: 05/11/2007 5:41:32 PM


Title: Glen, Brian and Family

Comment:

We were very sad to hear about Rita. We wish to offer our deepest sympathy to you Glen and to you  Brian and to all the family. She was a great Lady and she fought the illness for many years. Take care.

From Michel(Chico) and Monique Doucet ,Bathurst, NB.

Submitted: 05/11/2007 5:57:38 PM


Title: with sympathy

Comment: Glen and family:
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of someone so special.
Our thoughts are with you and family members. Please accept our deepest sympathy. Vaughn and Patti Steeves(Matthew & Marie Agnew's daughter)

Submitted: 05/11/2007 5:58:33 PM


Title: two rita agnew

Comment: hello my name is mark donovan i was in the special olympics rita agnew was a good friend of mine she help me out a lot whin i was new and glen agnew well glen i am so sorry for your lost of rita angew i now what you must be feeling you are sad and hurting in side there is a lot of of us are going two be at rita angew funeralon tuesday glen when i see you i wish you the best of luck geting over this i now it will take some time your friend mark donovan

Submitted: 06/11/2007 12:28:26 AM


Title: Thinking of you all.

Comment: From, Peggy Steele

Submitted: 06/11/2007 9:10:57 AM


Title: Sincere sympathies

Comment:

We were sorry to hear about Rita's passing but we know that she is in a far better place, Her time with us will not be forgotten. I had the pleasure of working with her when we were house coordinators. Sorry that I could not attend services as I was out of town. 

          Sincerely, Simone Deveau

Submitted: 06/11/2007 9:22:53 AM


Title: To the Agnew Family

Comment:

How very sorry I am for the loss of Rita.  Although it seems so long ago, she made hanging out at your house so much fun :-)  A great addition to Brian's parties :-)

My thoughts are with you at this time.

Sincerely,

Stacy (Horsman) Oliver

Submitted: 06/11/2007 12:15:14 PM


Title: Glen and family

Comment: It was with great sadness that I read of Rita's passing in the paper. Please know how very much she was loved and that in your sadness our praters will be with you. Marolyn Dawson ( Bob Fawcett's mom )

Submitted: 06/11/2007 12:44:33 PM


Title: Sympathy to the Agnew Family

Comment: Dear Glen
I was so sorry to hear of Rita's passing. My cousin, Wayne Harrigan from Riverview, e-mailed her obituary to me today. I kick myself for not making contact with you in the past during my visits to Riverview. I had been aware that she was not well and I had a copy of a wonderful article that was in the Moncton newspaper a few years ago paying tribute to the two of you for your work with Special Olympians.
I know something of what you may be feeling as I lost my wife(Beverly) to cancer in 2001 but I will not pretend to know your feelings today.I remember the both of you well and fondly from our training and working days @ Douglas Hospital and our early married years when we lived in the same apartment building on Beurling Avenue in Verdun.
I know that you will have many happy memories of your life together and your family is a lasting legacy through which she will live on but her physical presence in your life leaves a void. Be comforted by all of your family and friends at this time.
I would really like to hear from you when you are able to do so.
In the meantime know that you are thought about and I wish you and your family a healing time and comfort in your sorrow.
Ron Craig
Winnipeg, Manitoba
craiging@shaw.ca

Submitted: 06/11/2007 2:37:29 PM


Title: Glen and family

Comment:

We would like to extend our sympathies to you and your family.  Special Olympics has truly lost a passionate supporter.  She will always be remembered for the kindness and love that she showed to everyone.

 

Annete and Blair Garrett

Submitted: 06/11/2007 2:46:57 PM


Title: For a Wonderful Lady...

Comment:

Dear Glen and Family,

It is with a heavy heart that I write this today...I am very sorry for your loss...my family will be thinking of you today and the days ahead..

Rita's courage was always the first thing I thought of when I saw her...a very exceptional lady for sure....Glen, your and Rita's dedication to the Special Olympics Program is very, very important to us as parents of children with special needs...You always make our children know that they are valid human beings who love to be with others and play sports and have fun...Ewan loved his Saturdays with you Glen at Beaverbrook and it was always a joy to see Rita cheering on every athlete at the track meets...

Whereever Rita's journey has now taken her, I am confident that she is making all the people around her feel that they are treasured no matter what their "exceptionalities" are...

All the Best Glen...if Ewan were there right now he would give you a big HUG..

Lisa, Blair and Ewan Baker (Winnipeg, MB)

Submitted: 06/11/2007 4:16:51 PM


Title: To Glenn and Family

Comment:

Glenn,

I have just learned , with regret, of your wife's passing.

I send you my deepest and sincere sympathy for our great loss, and I will offer my prayers for you and your family.

Sincerely,  Buzz Betts

Submitted: 06/11/2007 8:40:20 PM


Title: Mama Rita was wonderful!

Comment: Glen, family, and Lu,
My mom told me of Rita's passing this weekend.  I was so sorry to hear.  My thoughts are with all of you at this time.  I loved working with Rita at West Lane.  She was a support, she would let you know when you messed up,  and she always had your back.  I saw her only once after I moved out to Winnipeg.  I had gone back to Moncton for a visit and we ran into each other at WalMart.  She looked so frail, but she had an inner fire that kept her going.  Glen, her kids, Special O, and her friendship with Lu were her reason to keep living as long as she did.
My thought's are with all of you.  I will always remember Rita's fun loving spirit and her smile.
Krista Paradowski

Submitted: 07/11/2007 9:21:49 AM


Title: To Glen & Family...

Comment:

I was shocked to hear of the passing of a dear person, Rita.  I met her for the first time at a Canada Post ball tournament in PEI in 2006.  Her presence and love was felt by everyone around.  I didn't get to know alot about Rita, but I heard so many great things about her, and I'm saddened that she is no longer with us, but believe that she is with us in "spirit".  Goodbye Rita, and you can finally rest in peace.

Sincerely,

Suzanne & Darren LUND, Moncton NB.

Submitted: 08/11/2007 7:25:53 AM


Title: Brian, Lori and Family

Comment:

Thinking of you and your families as you mourn the passing of your mother. Such wonderful tributes in her honour! Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Chris and Russ Mallard

 

Submitted: 08/11/2007 11:37:41 AM


Title: Brian, Lori and Family

Comment:

Our sincere sympathies to you Brian and families on the loss of your mother. Such wonderful tributes to cherish and hold dear. You are in our thoughts .

Chris Driscoll-Mallard and Russ Mallard

Submitted: 08/11/2007 2:16:16 PM


Title: Brian, Lori and Family

Comment:

Our sincere sympathies to you Brian and families on the loss of your mother. Such wonderful tributes to cherish and hold dear. You are in our thoughts .

Chris Driscoll-Mallard and Russ Mallard

Submitted: 08/11/2007 2:16:16 PM


Title: Glen and Family

Comment:

Our dear friend Rita Agnew passed away last week. For all of us who had the privilege of knowing Rita, we are saddened by her passing but we are enriched for having been able to spend time with such an amazing individual. Rita would not want us to mourn her death but rather celebrate her life and all she stood for. She was one of the strongest people I have ever met and she possessed an amazing love of life and a wonderful sense of humor. Rita maintained a positive outlook to the end. Her faith and love especially for her husband Glen and her family sustained her throughout her illness and should serve as an inspiration for all of us.  We will never forget Rita's infectious (and often mischievous) smile , the sparkle in her eyes when she spoke of her grandchildren, the hand in hand morning walks she took with Glen along the beach in Montego Bay, or the "confetti surprises" in the letters she would send.  These and so many more happy memories will help sustain us through this time of sorrow........until we meet again, Rest in Peace Dear Rita.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Glen.

Love, Bonnie and Ralph Coscia

Submitted: 09/11/2007 9:04:59 PM


Title: Glen & Family,

Comment:

James and I want to extend our sympathies you at this time.  We have known you only for about 7 years, but you and Rita were always fun, friendly and kind.  May you and your family find strength in each other at this time, and know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

 

Jim & Pam Sherman

(Sandals Family)

Submitted: 11/11/2007 1:16:13 PM


Title: Lovely Rita

Comment:

Glen and Family:  

     Our paths have not crossed often depsite our being cousins.  I am Kathy -ryn-  (Uncle Stanley's youneest daughter from Pennsylvania).  My husband Bob and I were at the last reunion behind Isabella's Pauley's old home.

    I am so sorry to hear of your loss and do hope there is some comfort to be found in knowing that Rita has been released from her body's burdens.

    If ever the expression, "she lit up the room and turned heads and hearts around" it would describe your Rita.  Each of you in your family have memories of a wonderfully strong and gracious, generous and fun loving Rita that vary just a bit, because she knew the keys to open each in her life in a special way.

    My husband Bob has now struggled with lung cancer since February and has done quite well, but will continue therapy for the rest of his life. 

    Rita and you carried on her battle and without your love, support and acceptance, she could not have done that  for six and a half years. 

    A toast to you to celebrate the joy she brought each of you.  A wish that your very best and fondest memories replace your grief in the very near future.

    I have been unable to find your home address via the internet, so post here.  Aunt Jean Price told me the sad news the other night.

Ryn Agnew  2136 State Route 44 Allenwood, PA  17810 rynagnew@comcast.net

 

Submitted: 11/11/2007 2:19:00 PM


Title: Dear Glen & Family

Comment: So sorry to hear of Rita's passing. We only met her a few years ago at the Special Olympics Festival but those years were precious to us in knowing such a wonderful person. She was someone you could never forget. Our thoughts are with you Glenn at this very hard time. We will continue to remember you and your family in our prayers. Doris and Bruce Penner

Submitted: 16/11/2007 7:54:30 AM


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