Obituary of Rita Hooley

The family of Rita Hooley, sadly announce her passing, which occurred peacefully on Sunday, January 21, 2024, at Rocmaura Nursing Home. Born in Saint John on August 3, 1930, she was the daughter of the late John and Ellen (nee Keleher) Hooley.

Rita was the last surviving member of her immediate family and was predeceased by her brothers Joseph and Frank Hooley; as well as her sisters: Madeline Hooley, Alice Hooley, Gertrude Phinney, Rose Forrestell and Doreen Ferris.

Rita was known to the Ferris clan as our second mother. She helped raise us after our father passed away in 1963 and we are eternally grateful to her. Rita is survived by: Ellen (Mark) Palmer of Saint John, Michael (Myfanwy) Ferris of Moncton, Patrick (Pam) Ferris of Grand Bay-Westfield, Susan (Greg) Carr and Daniel (Leslie) Ferris both of Saint John, and Barbara (Don) Dickson of Quispamsis. Rita is also survived by her sister-in-law Elsie Hooley; and three generations of nieces and nephews.

Rita led an active life including golfing, curling, bowling, and painting. She was an avid reader, enjoyed traveling and was involved with Meals on Wheels.

Rita started off her career working at Red Rose Tea before taking on the position of Paymaster at the school district office.

Resting at Castle “Fallsview” Funeral Home (506) 634-1701 309 Lancaster Ave., Saint John NB. Visitation for Rita will take place on Thursday, January 25, 2024, from 4:00 – 8:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 26, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish -St. Rose of Lima Worship Site (541 Milford Road, Saint John, NB) beginning at 12:00 PM. Following the mass, a reception will be held at Castle “Fallsview” Funeral Home; interment will take place in the spring. Donations in Rita’s memory can be made to L’Arche, Alzheimer’s Society, Heart and Stroke, or the charity of your choice. To make online condolences please visit www.castlefh.ca