CELEBRATIONS were in full swing as a Rugby resident and former magistrate marked her 90th birthday in style.
Rita Bright was joined by staff, relatives, and friends at Overslade House Care Home to celebrate the landmark with a special birthday cake made by the home’s chef.
Rita was born in Peterborough in 1934 and was married to Dr John Bright for 35 years. They had three children, David, Amanda and Jeremy, and one grandson, Seth.
Rita was a magistrate in Rugby for 30 years. In her spare time, she loved to cook, and enjoyed gardening and flower arranging.
She also ran the 18th Rugby Brownies Pack in Hillmorton.
Rita raised a lot of money for charity and was affectionately known as ‘Mrs Womble’ for her thriftiness.
Her kindness also extended to animals – she had cats and also three rescue dogs.
Rita also ran a Christmas card shop at St Andrews Church in Rugby to raise money for charity.
She was a regular member of the congregation at St Andrews church after the passing of her husband John, and it was here that she met Noel who had also lost his wife.
Rita and Noel love to sing and regularly sang in the choir. They also loved to travel and went on many coach trips. A wonderful partnership blossomed and Rita and Noel have now been together for 27 years, and both live at Overslade House.
Noel also has two sons, Alex and Chris – who said: “Rita was a godsend to my father.”
When asked the secret to a long life, Rita said: “One must stay positive and not complain too much.”
Rita’s family described her as a very welcoming and uncomplaining person – echoed by the staff at Overslade House.
General Manager Violeta Baesu said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating a truly remarkable lady as she reaches another amazing milestone.
“Rita is such a popular resident who always has an interesting tale to tell, and we look forward to hearing many more.”
