Rita Ann Jacques Williams passed away on September 30th, 2022, in her home with her beloved daughter Janna by her side. She was 84.
In eight-plus decades, Rita positively impacted countless lives locally, nationally, and internationally. After growing up in Anaconda, Montana, and graduating from Anaconda Central High School, she served as a Sinsinawa Dominican Sister for ten years, received her Education degree from Edgewood College in Madison, Wisconsin, and her English degree from Rosary College in River Forest, Illinois (now known as Dominican University).
Rita believed everyone should have the opportunity to learn to read – a belief she carried on her travels and eventually brought home when she returned to Montana in the 1970s. Her unique ability to connect with those needing special education and reading comprehension skills were just some of the many gifts she shared as an educator. She dedicated her career to improving the quality of life of children in public education and those with special needs.
Rita was unconditionally loving, compassionate, selfless, generous, and deeply caring as a friend and mother. As a steady contributor to the Independent Record through numerous published letters to the editor, Rita also used her voice to uphold community, democracy, and to serve those unable to be heard.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa, Helena Food Share, Wild About Cats Rescue & Sanctuary, or a charity of your choice.
Rita’s beautiful life and memory will be celebrated on October 27th, 2022, at 11 am at Our Lady of the Valley – located at 1502 Shirley Road in Helena, Montana.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
11:00 a.m.
Thursday October 27, 2022
Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church
1502 Shirley Rd
Helena, MT 59602
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
11:00 a.m.
Thursday October 27, 2022
Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church
1502 Shirley Rd
Helena, MT 59602
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Jane Aitchison says
Hello there. I was very sorry to hear of the passing of Rita. I knew Rita when I was a child. My parents took my brother to the Glen Doman institute in the early 70’s and when they came back, they implemented the programme that he recommended. Shortly after that, Rita came over to Edinburgh and stayed with us for a short time to help my parents with this.
I remember she gave me a Philadelphia flyers sweatshirt. We then met up with her again in Cheltenham, where she helped with the Glen Doman clinic there. I also remember her very kindly inviting us to the cottage she rented in the Cotswolds and driving us all there in a wonderful open top MG. She was a lovely lady.