Rita Cora Benoit Smith Sasiewicz passed away peacefully on January 6th, 2022 at Matulaitis Nursing Home in Putnam, CT shortly after her 101st birthday.
Rita was predeceased by her loving husband Edward Sasiewicz. She is survived by her son, James Smith of Ashford; her daughter, Deborah Cutler of Pomfret; two granddaughters: Sandra Beaulieu of Maine and Shelly Goudreau of Pomfret; and several great grandchildren: Shea Goudreau of Pomfret and Stephen Beaulieu & Angie Beaulieu of Maine. Rita spent many years of her life living in West Palm Beach, FL and then moved back to Pomfret, CT in the later years of her life to be around her family. Rita was a vibrant soul who lived independently well into her late 90s. She had a contagious smile, enjoyed dressing to the nines, and always wanted to be out and about. She enjoyed venturing to Misquamicut Beach during the New England summers, playing the slots at Foxwoods Casino, or spending time socializing at her favorite local restaurants and bars. Despite her advanced age and short stature, she drove a white Ford Mustang around town that she loved which was one of her prized possessions. Some of her friends would even fondly refer to her as “Mustang Rita”. She was also quite the fashionista; always wearing glitz & glam outfits with high heels right up until the end of her life. She lived a long and happy existence, making it to see her 101st birthday. She will be lovingly missed by all of her family and friends.
Rita’s wishes are to spend eternity among her late husband Edward, so her ashes will be spread privately at the Connecticut State Veterans Cemetery. “The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate”.
