Rita A. Hilborne, 83, Oswegatchie

OSWEGATHCIE - Rita A. Hilborne, age 83, of the Town of Oswegatchie, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, February 13, 2025, in Potsdam.

Rita is survived by her daughter, retired Senator Patty (Thomas) Ritchie of the Town of Oswegatchie; her son Kenneth (Kathleen) Hilborne of Ogdensburg; her grandchildren Thomas (Kari) Ritchie of the Town of Oswegatchie, Jessica (Ryan) Krishnakumar of IL, Kevin Ritchie & his companion Ashlyn Foster of the Town of Oswegatchie, Zachary Skelly of North Carolina, Kenneth (Brianna) Hilborne of Brier Hill, Andrew (Erica) Hilborne of Ogdensburg, and Grace Hilborne & her companion Jacob Sharpe of Ogdensburg; her great-grandchildren Landon, Lexi, Mila, and Beau Ritchie, Aryanna and Maxim Krish, and Easton, Elyse and Rhett Hilborne. She is also survived by her sisters, Lucy Johnston of Grand Rapids, MI, Elaine Thompson of Potsdam, and Frances (Fred) Baxter of Norfolk.

Rita was predeceased by her husband Kenneth; two brothers John and Frank Smithers; three sisters Clara Newton, Alice Simzer and Carmen Mussen.
Rita was born on August 30, 1941, in Ogdensburg, a daughter of the late John and Elvira (Keys) Smithers. She graduated from Heuvelton Central School and was later married to Kenneth H. Hilborne on July 2, 1960.

Rita worked many years in the banking industry, beginning her career at Western Union, followed by Fleet Bank, and retired as a loan officer at Community Bank after 35 years of service. She enjoyed spending time at the casino, quilting, and cherished moments with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Rita also loved her time spent at the hunting camp in Pierrepont.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00pm on Friday (February 21, 2025) at the Fox & Murray Funeral Home with Pastor Paul Dettmer officiating. Calling hours will be held prior from 11:00am to 3:00pm. Burial will be in the spring at Hillcrest Cemetery in Heuvelton. Memorial contributions can be made to the Heuvelton Fire Department and First Responders.

The family would like to extend their gratitude for all the support and kindness they have received during this difficult time.