Rita R. (Collette) White

MILLBURY - Rita R. (Collette) White, 83, of Millbury, died Saturday, January 24, 20262026, at UMass Memorial – University Campus, after a long illness.

She leaves a daughter, April M. Schotel and her husband, Christopher P. Schotel of Poole, Dorset, England.  She also leaves three sisters, Janice Williams of Millbury, MA, Karen Erickson of Oxford, MA and Claire Ferrero of West Brookfield MA; 10 grandchildren, Wilburn E. White IV and his wife Branda of Pona City, OK, William Henry and his wife Shawna of Douglas, MA, Kimberly Reyes and her husband Jose of Southbridge, Taylor White of Dudley, Christa White Estremera and her husband Christopher of Dudley,  Stephen Bourgeois and his partner Justin Srodulski of Belchertown, MA, Parker Bourgeois and his fiancé Maria Morgan of Worcester MA, Christian Bourgeois of Astoria, NY, Zachary White and Joel White, both of Oxford, MA; 13 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by two sons, Wilburn E. White III (2010) and Scott F. White (2021); her grandaughters Candace M. Bourgeois and Jill Temple, two brothers, Edward J. Collette Jr and William Supernor;  her sister, Judith Gerber, and her fiancé Ron Smith.

Rita was born in Worcester, daughter of Edward J. and Emma (Lloyd) Collette and lived all her life in Worcester and Millbury, MA.  Most recently, Rita resided at the CareOne in Millbury.

Rita was a food service worker at St. Vincent Hospital for many years.  She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Charles F. Minney Post #3329, V.F.W., Millbury.

Rita enjoyed cooking and caring for her family most of all.  She also enjoyed cruising, traveling and sitting by her sister’s pool, surrounded by her family.  Rita’s favorite past time was visiting the casino, which always put a smile on her face.

The family would like to thank all the staff at CareOne in Millbury for taking such good care of mum these past 8 years.  The love and compassion she received there will always be fondly remembered.  We would also like to thank the staff in the ICU at UMASS Memorial-University Campus for their care and understanding in mum’s last days. 

Calling hours will be held Thursday February 5, 2026,  from 4:00 – 6:00 pm at Rice Funeral Home, 300 Park Ave, Worcester.  The family invites all to join us at a funeral reception to celebrate Rita’s life, to be held immediately following the calling hours at A and D Restaurant, Function Room, 60 Elm St., Millbury, MA 01527.