BIDDEFORD — Rita C. Blais, 87 of Biddeford, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2015 at Saint Joseph’s Convent in Biddeford.

Rita was born in Biddeford on June 5, 1927, the daughter of Adelard and Eva (Hebert) Cote. She was educated in the local school system.

She was employed at Pepperell Manufacturing for many years as well as a house keeper; she worked hard to support her family. She will be best remembered as a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Rita was always willing to help anyone in need, her door was always open, she would take in other family members if they needed a place to go.

She was artful and crafty and would make clothing for her nine children. Her family was the most important thing in her life. Rita was a very spiritual woman and had a strong faith in the Lord.

Rita was preceded in death by: her husband, Josephat Blais; by two sons, Roger Blais and Andre Blais. She was also predeceased by: a daughter, Jeanne Blais; and a great-grandson, Jay Hanson.

She is survived by: three sons, Gerard Blais, Edward Blais and Francois Blais: and by three daughters, Denise Foster, Marie Rose Thivierge and Bernadette Spulick.

Rita also leaves: her brother, Andre Cote; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on Friday April 10, 2015 at Cote Funeral Home, 87 James St., Saco. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday April 11, 2015 at 10 a.m. in St. Joseph’s Convent 409 Pool St. in Biddeford. Burial will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Rita’s name to Saint Joseph’s Convent, 409 Pool St., Biddeford, Maine 04005

To sign the online guestbook or to send a condolence to the family, please visit www.cotefuneralhome.com.

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