Ex Pune India, Nairobi Kenya and London UK.
Beloved wife of the late Braz Joseph Philomena DeSa, loving mother of Helen and Darren and mother-in-law of James and Alison, adored grandmother of Samara and Sebastian, cherished daughter of the late Joseph and Annie D’Lima and sister to her four brothers (late Ossie/Sheila (surviving), late Bona, late Fr Patrick and Colin/Judy), affectionate sister-in-law, wonderful cousin, aunt, grandaunt and exceptional person to her extended family and friends.
Rita was born and grew up in Pune, where she spent many happy years with her loving family and extended family. Having completed the Associate of Trinity College London (ATCL), Rita moved to Mumbai, where she taught at the Convent of Jesus and Mary School (Fort Convent). She proved to be an outstanding, loved and popular teacher among her students and parents, with everyone wanting to join her class – a theme that would continue. In 1967, she married Braz in Mumbai and moved to Nairobi, Kenya. Braz was an Inspector in the Kenyan police, and it was here that their two children were born. Rita co-founded the Consolata School in Westlands and tutored many pupils as her reputation for excellence and kindness grew. They lived a wonderful life surrounded by dear family and friends, always on hand to help anyone and were active members of the Railway Goan Institute in the main and of the Goan Institute.
In 1975, the family moved to London, UK and Braz continued his career in the police with the London Metropolitan Police, and Rita put her best foot forward and took on a variety of roles. Music and playing the piano continued as a major theme, bringing joy and inspiration to everyone who heard her! Both donated to several charities, sponsored the education and development of trainee priests and played an active role in their local church, St Joseph’s, where Rita volunteered in many capacities, including serving as a Eucharistic minister. They selflessly raised their two children and later doted on their grandchildren.
Rita will always be remembered for her genuine love and kindness, her patience like no other, her gentle nature and warm smile and her talent for teaching, music and gardening.
Forever loved and much missed.
Funeral details to follow.
Condolences to:
wattsh@live.co.uk Tel +447788756888 (UK)
desadarren@aol.com Tel +447940575024 (UK)
