SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — Marie Rita Blanchard

Honourable senators, today I rise to celebrate an extraordinary milestone: the upcoming birthday of a remarkable woman, Marie Rita Blanchard, who turns 100 on February 7, 2026. Rita’s story begins in Oyster Bed Bridge, Prince Edward Island, where she was born the third child in a family of nine. From an early age, she learned the value of hard work, responsibility and caring for others, values that would shape the rest of her life.

At just 17 years old, Rita made the decision to leave home and travel to Boston, where she worked as a maid for a doctor and his family. It was a testament to her independence, courage and determination, qualities that have stayed with her throughout her life. Rita later returned to Canada, settling in Saint John, New Brunswick, where she worked at a sugar refinery, which is located on the shore of Port Saint John. When the men went off to war, Rita stepped forward once again and was asked to operate the overhead crane in the plant, taking on work that was the responsibility of few women at the time.

After leaving the refinery, she began working at Admiral Beatty Hotel, but her greatest joy came when she married the love of her life, Joseph Clarence Blanchard. They built a home filled with love, laughter and resilience with the determination to build a strong family environment. They raised eight children of their own. Today, the result of their parenting is reflected in those children’s career achievements and the families they have now created because of the values instilled in them by their mother and father.

As a devoted stay-at-home mom, Rita put her family first in every way, even setting aside personal milestones like getting a driver’s licence. Yet at 60 years of age, she decided it was time and proudly earned her licence, proving that it’s never too late to learn something new. Rita has always been known for her remarkable memory. Today, she remembers names and details of events that amaze everyone around her. For example, as a teenager, Rita and her sisters helped a widow raise her 17 children, and more than 80 years later, she can still recall every one of their names, which is a testament to her sharp mind and caring heart.

Rita Blanchard’s life is a story of courage, faith, family and love. Today, we celebrate not just 100 years of life but also 100 years of strength, compassion and unforgettable memories. Happy one hundredth birthday, Rita.