Rita Lee, 88, of Old Saybrook, died on April 24 at Apple Rehabilitation in Old Saybrook. She was the beloved wife of the late Francis “John” Lee, who predeceased her in 1990. Rita had resided in Killingworth since 1958. She was born on Sept. 23, 1924 in Northfield, New Hampshire, daughter of the late Victor J. and Delima (Harbour) Gilbert. Rita had been a laboratory technician at Chesebrough-Ponds in Clinton for 32 years. She loved birds and animals, especially her beloved “Buckshot,” a Cocker Spaniel and Black Labrador mix, who predeceased her. Rita will always be remembered for her New England wit.

She is survived by her sons, Charles W. of Concord, New Hampshire, Gilbert R. of Ashland, New Hampshire, and Larry O. Dinger of Plymouth, New Hampshire. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her brother Larry Gilbert and her sister Helen Gilbert.

Her funeral services were private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her name to the Connecticut Humane Society, 169 Old Colchester Rd., Quaker Hill, CT 06375. The Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home, Centerbrook, was in charge of arrangements. To share a memory of Rita or send a condolence to her family please visit www.rwwfh.com .