Rita F. Durand

Rita F. Durand, 88, of West Street in Keene, formerly of Jaffrey, died peacefully Tuesday November 1, 2011 at the Keene Center Genesis Health Care, following a period of failing health. She was born April 30,1923 in Jaffrey, daughter of the late Theophille and Melina (LaPlante) Forcier. She was a 1941 graduate of Conant High School and until moving to Keene in 2000, she had been a life long resident of this community. During World War II, Rita had served with the United States Marine Corps as a Technical Sergeant stationed at the Pentagon in the Paymaster’s office and later served in California. Rita had worked as a secretary/typist for the former Monadnock Ledger when its office was located in Jaffrey. While in Jaffrey she was a communicant of St. Patrick Church. She loved to read and knit. She also enjoyed going out to eat and visiting with friends. Most cherished was her time spent with family. Her husband of 43 years, Rene A. Durand, died August 6, 1990. Survivors include her three sons Rene A. Durand Jr of Cincinnati, Ohio, Daniel Durand and Kenneth Durand, both of Keene; two grandchildren, one great granddaughter; nieces and nephews and several cousins.

Burial will take place at St. Patrick Cemetery, Jaffrey.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Jaffrey-Rindge Memorial Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 107, Jaffrey NH 03452

Friends and family are warmly invited to call at the Cournoyer Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 33 River Street, in Jaffrey on Saturday from 9:00 to 10:00AM.

A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00AM in St. Patrick Church, 89 Main Street, Jaffrey, Rev. Wilfred H. Deschamps pastor will officiate.