Mary Rita Spear

Mary Rita Spear, 89, a lifelong resident of Portland, passed away peacefully on August 29 after a brief illness. She was born on June 1, 1926 in Portland, to William M. and Mary Carleton Reardon. Rita attended Cathedral Grammar School and graduated from Cathedral High School. She worked for The American Can Company, and later with Maine Casualty and Bonding Co. Ritas life was entirely dedicated to family and friends - always supportive and determined. No matter the situation, she would readily share her optimism and easy sense of humor. For many years she was a communicant of Sacred Heart Church after settling to the West End. She was an avid walker, and as a child enjoyed spending summers with the many family gatherings held at her grandparents homes on both Long and Peaks Islands. She was predeceased by her parents and siblings, William, Patricia and Janice. She is survived by her sons, Charles of Milton, VT and Daniel of Portland, and her grandchildren, Ethan, Dillon and Emma, all of Portland. A graveside service will be held at Brooklawn Memorial Park on Saturday, September 12 at 10:00 am. The family would like to express their sincere thanks to the staff at Mercy Hospital for their excellent and compassionate care. Arrangements are under the direction of the Conroy-Tully Crawford Funeral Home, 172 State Street, Portland.