Reita Colard, age 82, of Pepperell, passed away on April 13, 2026, with her family by her side. Born on July 1, 1944, in Lowell, Massachusetts, Reita lived a life defined by devotion, resilience, and a deep, unwavering love for the people she held close. 

She is survived by her son, James Colard, and his husband, Christopher Morrison, of Pepperell; her daughter, Elaine Wiah of Oxford, Massachusetts; and four stepchildren—Jaki Cyr, Paul, Romeo Jr., and Francis Colard each of whom she cared for in her own steady way. 

Reita’s grandson, Anthony Drew, was her heart and soul. She raised him for nearly twenty years, and the bond they shared was one of profound love, pride, and partnership. To Anthony, she was a grandmother, a guardian, and a constant source of strength. 

She is also survived by her siblings—Wendy Boucher, Catherine Farris both of Westminster, John (Jack) Farris, of North Reading, MA, as well as far too many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great‑grandchildren, and extended family members to name, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She is predeceased by her siblings Alexander and James Farris and her sister Patricia Potter. 

Reita enjoyed the simple joys that made life sweet: playing cards, visiting casinos, listening to country music, and savoring her Dunkin’s coffee. Back in the day, you could always find her at the Pepperell Spa with her friends, sharing laughs and stories. She loved hopping in the car for a drive—whether she was heading to visit family in Salem, NH, or browsing the aisles of the Christmas Tree Shops in search of trinkets and treasures that delighted her. 

Those who knew Reita will remember her as a strong, independent, and stubborn woman—qualities that carried her through life’s challenges and shaped the fierce love she had for her family. She lived life on her own terms, stood her ground when it mattered, and never lost the spark that made her unmistakably herself. 

Reita was blessed with lifelong friendships, including the steadfast support of Tom Doucet, who stood by her with love, compassion, and loyalty for more than twenty years. His presence brought her comfort, laughter, and a sense of being truly understood.

Visiting hours will be held in the McGaffigan Family Funeral Home, 37 Main St., (Rte. 113) Pepperell, MA on Thursday, April 23rd from 2 - 4 pm. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Reita’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association. The research and support provided by the organization helped guide her loved ones through some of their darkest days, and giving in her name honors both her journey and the hope for a brighter future for others. 

Reita’s legacy is one of love freely given, family fiercely protected, and relationships nurtured with patience and kindness. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.