Rita Saunders Hannigan

February 7, 2019

Rita Saunders Hannigan, 91, of West Hartford, beloved wife of Thomas J. Hannigan Jr., passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 7, 2019. Born on March 4, 1927 in Stamford, CT, she was the daughter of the late William and Mary (Moakler) Saunders. She and Tom spent many years overseas, first in Guam and then in the Panama Canal Zone where they lived for 26 years and raised their six children. While in the Canal Zone, Rita earned a B.A. from Florida State University and a master’s degree from the University of Alabama. She taught for eighteen years in the Canal Zone school system. They returned to Connecticut in 1988 to enjoy their retirement and spend time with their cherished grandchildren. Rita was an avid reader, birdwatcher and quilter and was a proud member of the Panama Canal Society. She and Tom never missed the annual Reunion. She is survived by her adoring husband of 65 years and her children: James J. Hannigan (Judy) of Mt. Vernon, WA, Doris M. Hannigan (Michael Penda) of Tolland, CT, Thomas J. Hannigan III, of Auburn, WA, Dennis P. Hannigan (Karen) of West Hartford, CT, David J. Hannigan of Tequesta, FL, and Brian C. Hannigan (Wendy) of Southington, CT. She also leaves behind 11 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Francis Saunders of Hamden and was predeceased by her brother Frederick Saunders of Wallingford. The family will receive visitors at The Church of St. Timothy, 1116 North Main St., West Hartford, beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, February 11th, immediately followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. The family would like to thank the staff at Hughes Health and Rehabilitation and Masonicare Hospice for their loving care and kindness. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, 322 8th Avenue, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10001 (alzfdn.org). Arrangements are entrusted to Molloy Funeral Home. For condolences, please visit www.molloyfuneralhome.com.