Rita A. Johnsen

Rita A. Johnsen of Mystic, formerly a longtime resident of Noank, died peacefully February 12 at the age of 101. Before moving to Mystic 7 years ago to live with her daughter, Ellie Morano, she resided 35 years in No. Fort Meyers, Fla.

Born in Providence, RI in 1924, she was the daughter of Joseph and Blanche Cote Bessette.

She was married to the late Walter R. Johnsen, who she met at Tourtelotte High School in No. Grosvenordale. They were married 40 years before his passing in 1985.

Rita was a talented seamstress, artist and musician. She came from a loving and musically talented family, where gatherings were full of song, music and laughter. While in Florida, she was active in the Tara Woods community and was a member of St. Therese church.

In addition to Ellie Morano of Mystic, she is survived by her sister Alice Coderre of Putnam, three other daughters, Linda Dion (Al) of Noank, Karen Lesmeries (Alan) of Chichester, NH and Susan (Tom) Caronia of Stonington.

In addition she was grandma to David Dion (Carlleen) Daniel Dion, Christopher Casko (Alison), Jennifer Klaus (Keith), Kristine Moyer and Lena Landry (Gregg). She was Nana to greatgrand children, Matt Dion ( Kristina), Lindsay Valdez (Justin), Andy Dion (Sydne), Samantha Landry, Laurel Klaus, Ashlie Klaus, Emily Casko, Taylor Seiger (Steven) and Owen Moyer (Erin) as well as 7 great-great grandchildren and many loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by son-in-law Andy Morano and brothers Adrian, George, and Richard Bessette (who passed away 4 days before Rita) and sister Claire St. Jean as well as their spouses. After raising her family, she worked as a home health aide.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Vintage Pet Rescue, P.O. Box 194, Foster, RI, 02825.

The Mystic Funeral Home, Rt. 1, Mystic is assisting the family with arrangements.