Rita Turner
elevated 0dVSl January 1, 1930 ~ October 15, 2024
elevated 0dVSl Funeral Service
Monday, October 21, 2024 at 1:30 p.m.
Chapel of St. Joseph at Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, Ontario, L3T 3Z6
elevated 0dVSl Click here to watch the service
elevated 0dVSl Interment
Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery
8361 Yonge Street Thornhill, Ontario, L3T 3Z6
elevated 0dVSl Section 22
elevated 0dVSl Obituary
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rita Turner at the age of 94. A loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she left a legacy of love, faith, and adventure.
elevated 0dVSl Daughter of Albert Butler and Dorothy Butler (nee O’Connor) and loving wife to John Turner (d.2015) and Robert Arthur McAlear (d.1978).
elevated 0dVSl Rita was the devoted mother of eight children whom she raised with unwavering dedication, including Eileen McAlear (d,2024) (Michael), Anne McAlear (Paul), Mary Shields (Andy), David McAlear, Michael McAlear (Linda), Patricia Bischoff (Chris), Jane McAlear (Ross), and Adele McAlear.
elevated 0dVSl Cherished grandmother of 15 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren and will be deeply missed by all.
elevated 0dVSl Rita’s deep Catholic faith was the cornerstone of her life. A devout member of her parish, she not only attended Mass regularly but also sang in the choir. When she was a young mother she got her pilot’s license, she travelled around the world many times, and meticulously researched her family genealogy, Rita was a woman of remarkable spirit and her life was a testament to the values of faith, family and perseverance.
elevated 0dVSl In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to any Veterans Affairs affiliate.
We are very saddened to hear of the passing of Aunt Rita. Our deepest condolences to the family. Much love, Amanda (great niece), Ross and Rowan Rader
We are sadden to hear Aunt Rita passing. We always enjoyed meeting up with her, especially at the family reunions. She will be sadly missed. Our condolences to the family and her many friends. Alden, Nancy, Trevor and Cassandra McAlear
I have so many fond memories of my birthday buddy. I shall miss her
We were blessed to have met Rita through her amazing daughter Trish who like her mother challenged herself to go beyond living a normal life!
Although our time with Rita was short, she was wise with her words and clearly proud of her children. It was an honour for us to get to know her all be it briefly. Chris Trish and Angie our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you. May Rita rest now, but continue to live through you all. Kevin Kerry and Matt.
We are so sorry for your loss. Please accept our condolences on the passing of Rita.
Sandra and Dave
The first time I met Rita, we became fast friends. She will be missed by all who knew her. Rest in Peace my friend.
Sorry to hear of Rita’s passing. It was amazing to meet her in Dubai in her 80’s. Still travelling, she was so calm, relaxed and adventurous. A wonderful spirit that lives on in her many descendants.
Condolences to all the family.
Lovely Rita. I feel blessed to have known you. Give a big hug to John and Eileen for me, and I’ll be sure to keep Tom in line here for you.
You’re forever in my heart.
Spent many hours with Rita at the Family History Center in Barrie. She was an amazing genealogist and always ready with an answer or to help others in the Center with her knowledge. We sure missed her when she moved out to B.C. RIP Rita