Rita Frances Stearns

Rita F. Serrilla Stearns, 71, of Maple Terrace, Middletown RI passed peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, September 24, 2010 at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence.She was the wife of James H. Stearns, Jr.Born in Boston, MA on February 23, 1939, she was the daughter of the late Joseph F. and Mary E. Shaugnessy Serrilla.Mrs. Stearns was an Operating Room Technician in Brockton, MA and San Diego, CA. Later, she became a school bus monitor for Middletown Public Schools. She loved crafting, gardening and reading. Rita was also a devout Red Sox fan.In addition to her husband of 45 years, she is survived by her children, Anne F. Stearns of Nantucket, MA, Rita H. Stearns of Meriden, CT and James H. Stearns III of Middletown, RI. She was Nana to Bailey N. Stearns. Her brother, Francis X. Serrilla of Venice, FL and her sister and best friend, Mary Paige of Abington, MA also survive her. She leaves numerous nieces and nephews. Rita was the sister of the late Joseph Serrilla.Per Ritas request, visiting hours are respectfully omitted. A graveside inurnment service will be held Thursday, September 30, 2010 at 11 am in Middletown Cemetery, corner of Wyatt and Turner Roads, Middletown, RI.In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 931 Jefferson Blvd., Suite 3004, Warwick, RI 02886.God Bless and Save You, Rita