Rita (Sheehan) Perry

Rita Sheehan Perry, 97, of Lee died on November 29, 2024. She was born in Westfield, MA to the late Ethel Judd Sheehan and William Francis Sheehan on October 7, 1927. Rita graduated from Lee High School and soon after moved to Washington, D.C. and was employed by the U. S. government as a bookkeeper. It was there that she met Robert Moore Perry whom she married in 1949. Robert died in 1988.

Rita loved to volunteer and help the community where she lived. She was an avid gardener in her early days and was once president of her local garden club, when she lived in Burlington, MA. Additionally, in Burlington she was on the 4th of July committee, which initiated the 4th of July celebrations, and was later named Patriot of the year.

After Robert retired from the Civilian position he had with the Air Force, they relocated to Austin, TX. Later they moved to Mesquite, TX and finally they settled in Lee, MA in 1985.

Soon after Rita began volunteering at St. Mary’s Bingo and was also on the Lee Housing Authority.

Rita never tired of entertaining and preparing meals for friends and family. She loved to bake cookies and pies at Christmas. She gave away these treats to friends and family in appreciation for a task or help one gave to her.

Rita is survived by her daughter, Robin Perry of Lake Charles, Louisiana, a grandson, Max Perry Adame, his wife Jessica with 3 great grandsons Jack, Evan and Owen. Rita is also survived by another grandson, Alex Adame and his wife Kaylee who live in Houston, Texas. Her brother, William F. Sheehan Jr. died in 2007.

The family would like to give special thanks to all of Rita’s friends, nieces and nephews, especially to Timothy Sheehan who supported Rita through this difficult time.

A Liturgy of Christian Burial for Rita Sheehan Perry will be Thursday, December 5th, at 10 AM, at St. Mary Church in Lee, celebrated by Rev. Brian McGrath, Pastor. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery.  There will no calling hours.  In lieu of flowers it is the families wish that donations be made to St Mary Church in c/o the Kelly Funeral Home   3 Main Street  Lee, MA  01238.