Rita M. Leclerc

Rita M. Leclerc, 95, of Sanford, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, December 20, 2025.

She was born on March 8, 1930, in Sanford, one of ten children born to Frederic and Phelanise “Minnie” (Legere) Doiron. Rita grew up in Sanford and attended local schools. She often fondly recalled her childhood, sharing that although her family had little materially, their home was filled with love, laughter, and music.

Rita began working at a young age in the local mills and later, in her retirement years, taught exercise classes at eldre care facilities.

In 1953, she married the love of her life, Joseph Bernard “Ben” Leclerc. Together they shared 63 years of marriage, Rita was primarily a devoted homemaker who took great pride in caring for her family.

A devout Catholic, Rita credited her long and fulfilling life to her strong faith. She was especially proud to be a 43-year cancer survivor. She and her family cherished summers spent at their home in Wells, and later in life, Rita and Ben enjoyed wintering in Holiday, Florida, for nearly 20 years.

Rita was always well dressed, dignified, and proud. She loved playing Beano and enjoyed trips to the casinos. Above all, she adored her family and was a doting grandmother and great-grandmother. Known for her generousity, Rita was always willing to help others, whether through quiet acts of kindness or support for those less fortunate.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, J. Bernard Leclerc; her grandchildren, Damien Horgan and Alexander Caras; and eight of her siblings.

Rita is survived by her three daughters, Nancy Horgan and her husband Steve of Scarborough, Denise Bougie and her husband Ron of Sanford, and Laurie Caras and her husband Nick of Saco; seven grandchildren, Kevin, Amanda, and Bethany Bougie, Andrew and Katrina Horgan, and William and Ben Caras; nine great-grandchildren; her brother, Roger Doiron and many extended family members.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place in the spring at St. Ignatius Cemetery.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Hospice of Southern Maine and to Rita’s exceptional caregivers over the years, whose dedication and compassion allowed her to remain in the comfort of her home.

Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider a donation in Rita’s memory to St. Thomas School 69 North Ave. Sanford, ME 04073.