Rita Julie Monteiro

Rita J. Monteiro, age 82, of Dover, NH, died peacefully September 22, 2025, at Langdon Place of Dover Assisted Living Facility with her family by her side.

She was born on January 6, 1943, in Somerville, MA, daughter of George and Margaret (Callahan) Sheehan.

Rita graduated from Malden Hospital School of Nursing in 1964 from their R.N. program where she also began her career and met her husband, Alex. She went on to pursue a nursing career spanning three decades, including positions in Massachusetts, New York, and New Hampshire. She was passionate about her work as a geriatric nurse and was devoted to bringing comfort and joy to others, especially the elderly and children, in her work and her daily life.

Rita lived in Manchester, NH for over 40 years, where she raised her children and gave generously of her time, volunteering at every opportunity - whether at her children's schools, the local food bank, teaching adult literacy, or at St. Joseph's Cathedral, where she was an active member for many years.

Rita was always quilting or crocheting as evidenced by the countless homemade gifts for family and friends she made over the years. She was happiest singing along to a traditional Irish song, dancing, and supporting her children, and then grandchildren, at school, music, and sporting events.

Rita is survived by her husband of over 50 years, Alex; children Tereza Monteiro and husband Jon Connell of Somersworth, NH, Michael and wife Leah Monteiro of Reading, MA, and Joseph and wife Theresa Monteiro of Dover, NH; along with 9 adoring grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her sisters Helen Sheehan, Mary Edwards, Elizabeth Doherty, and brother Joseph Sheehan.

The family would like to extend deep gratitude to the compassionate Memory Care Unit staff at Langdon Place of Dover.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Easter Seals NH eastersealsnh.org or Alzheimer's Association www.alz.org/

Visiting hours will be held September 30, 2025, from 4-7 pm at Wiggin Purdy McCooey Dion Funeral Home, 655 Central Ave., Dover, NH 03820. Funeral mass will take place October 1, 2025, at 11 am at Parish of the Assumption St. Joseph Church, 150 Central Ave., Dover, NH 03820.

A private burial will be held at a later date.