Rita Goodwin

Rita Goodwin, 91, of Amherst, New Hampshire and formerly of Nashua, passed away on March 10, 2026, surrounded by her loving family after a period of declining health. Born in Manhattan, New York City on May 6, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Archibald and Kazimiera (Cassie Dombrosky) Raissis. Rita grew up in Manhattan and graduated from high school with the Class of 1952. She moved to Nashua in the early 1950s with her first husband, Malcolm Small.

A devoted homemaker, Rita also worked for many years at New England Interviewing and the Nashua Corporation, where she met her husband of 57 years, Michael R. Goodwin. She embraced life with enthusiasm and genuine warmth. Rita loved the energy of trips to Las Vegas and Foxwoods, the magic of theater and live performances, and the simple pleasures of good food and laughter. Above all, she cherished time spent with her children and grandchildren, creating memories that will endure in the hearts of all who knew her. At home, she found great joy in caring for her animals and following her favorite television programs, especially General Hospital.

She is survived by her husband, Michael; her five children and their spouses, Linda and Steven Munn of Longview, Texas, Suzan Small and Al Halle of Manchester, New Hampshire, Craig and Sherry Small of Plaistow, New Hampshire, Michael P. Goodwin of Nashua, and Jennifer and Jim Fichera of Amherst, New Hampshire; six grandchildren, Jessica Sist and her husband Dan, Alexis Small, Austin Small, Athena Kochilaris, Kazimiera Fichera, and Autumn Fichera; and two great-grandchildren, Gracie Sist and Nicholas Sist. She also leaves other dear family members, including Cassie, Jimmy, Michael, Scotty, Ashleigh, Calli, and their children and grandchildren. In addition to her parents, Rita was predeceased by her sister, Helen Kostes, and her brother, Michael Raissis.