Brown, Rita A. (MacLellan), 85, sang her last tune on Aug 23, 2025 at her home in Virginia Beach.
Known as the life of the party, Rita lived each day with laughter, love, and an open seat at the table. Despite being in hospice for over 2 years, she continued to live each day for time spent with friends, family, food, and faith.
Rita was born on Sept 15, 1939 in Dorchester, MA to John and Mary Gill MacLellan. She graduated from Framingham State and immediately took an opportunity to travel with the US Air Force as a dietician. The newly commissioned 2nd Lieutenant was sent to California where fate led her to airman Bill Brown. Their courtship almost didn’t survive their cross country move back East, but anyone who has been blessed to be on a cross country trip with Rita can probably understand that sentiment. She was independent, adventurous, loving, loyal, and vocal in her opinions.
Rita and Bill married in 1965 and spent 28 years together, much of it sailing the Chesapeake Bay, before Bill’s early passing. After her youngest began school, Rita started her new career as a bookkeeper for the Chesapeake Redevelopment and Housing Authority and worked until retirement.
For the past 10 years, Rita made Atlantic Shores her home. From her Sunday Brunch crew, her Wednesday night happy hour tables, and her multiple bridge groups, she made numerous friends that became her family.
Rita leaves behind her beloved sons Patrick (Katherine) and Stephen (Haley), daughters Mary (Robert) and Christine (James), seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, brother William, and a host of family and friends. She was predeceased by her husband William, son Daniel, four siblings, and many more family members who surely saved a dance for her upstairs.
A funeral Mass will be held at Star of the Sea Catholic Church Saturday August 30 at 11:00 AM, followed by a reception. We will also meet Thursday for happy hour at Atlantic Shores.
In lieu of flowers, honor Rita by chatting up a stranger, planning brunch with friends, or indulging in ice cream with family—because that’s exactly how she’d want you to keep the party going.
Donations may be made to Star of the Sea Catholic Church or a charity close to your heart.
