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.