Bowdoinham- Rita A. Morrell, 66, passed away following a long courageous battle with multiple health complications on Tuesday March 12, 2019 at her home with her loving family by her side.   Rita was born in Passaic, New Jersey on February 22, 1953, daughter of Edward F. and Lillian V. (Tunkel) Oese.

Rita graduated from Central Regional High School class of 1971 and received an associate’s degree from Ocean County College in Toms River, NJ.  Rita then went on to marry the love of her life, Senior Chief Mess Management Specialist (Surface Warfare) Stephen L. Morrell Sr. On April 10, 1976 in Bayville, NJ.  She became a devoted Navy wife and mother during her husband’s 22 year military service and she was a dedicated volunteer for the Navy Ombudsman and the Navy relief Society for many years. Rita later pursued a career as a Special Education Technician.  

In addition to her parents, Rita was predeceased by her brothers Edward & William Oese and her mother & father-in-law, Lester B. Morrell and Melva L. (Allen) Morrell.

She is survived by her loving husband of 42 years, Stephen L. Morrell Sr.; Her son Stephen L. Morrell Jr & his wife Wendy of Bowdoinham; Her daughters Jennifer L. Follansbee & her husband Daniel of Fairfield and Michelle D.M. Phinney & her husband Wayne of Bowdoin; 
Her grandchildren Drew & Tyler Kiernan, Jacob & Kaycee Morrell and Isabella & Ethan Phinney; Her 3 sisters Ruthann, Beverly and Maryann; And several nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends. 

Visiting hours will be held 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Saturday, March 16, 2019 at Mays Funeral Home, 26 Church St., Calais.  A Celebration of Rita’s Life will be held in the funeral home 11 a.m. Sunday, March 17, 2019.  Burial will follow in Brewer Cemetery, Robbinston.  Condolences and memories may be shared at www.MaysFuneralHome.com