Rita M. Birchard

WORCESTER – Rita M. (English) Birchard, 85, of Brigham Road, died on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at her home surrounded by family. She is survived by her daughter, Elaine S. Courtney of Worcester; her brothers, John and Aloysius English; her sisters, Frances Mary English, and Mercedes Christopher; five grandchildren, Mary R. Biron, Thomas R. Courtney III, and Stacy E. Collins, Eddey & Amanda Birchard; many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews whom she loved; and many relatives across both the United States and Canada. She was predeceased by her husband of 7 years, Charles D. Birchard; and two sons, Donald C. Birchard, and David Birchard.

Mrs. Birchard was the daughter of the late John and Monica (Careen) English, and was raised in Newfoundland, Canada, with a large family of 7 children. She was predeceased by two siblings, Stephen and Charles. She lived in New Port Richey, Florida, and Oxford, before moving to Worcester in 2019. She was a member of St. Roch’s Church in Oxford for over 40 years.

Rita was a simple woman married for 66 years &10 months. She had a kind and loving heart, caring for her home and for her family. Her favorite pastimes were knitting, reading, and bingo, as well as bowling. She was loved for her notoriously famous cookies. She was always happy throughout her life, especially when she was with the love of her life, Charles. We were lucky and truly blessed to have her in our lives.

Services will be held privately at North Cemetery in Oxford at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Roch’s Church, 334 Main Street, Oxford, MA, 01540.

Paradis-Givner Funeral Home in Oxford is directing the arrangements.