Ausrite (Furmonavicius) Lagasse Taylor

Ausrite (Furmonavicius) Lagasse Taylor, 83, of Southington, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home on Friday, March 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Rita, as she was affectionately known, was born on September 7, 1942, in Lithuania, daughter to the late Peter and Ursula (Zaviskas) Furmonavicius. Rita journeyed to the United States at the tender age of seven. Throughout her life, she remained proud of her Lithuanian heritage, sharing stories and traditions that served as a bridge to her past for those she loved.
Eventually settling in Southington where Rita raised her family, she worked as a paraprofessional within the New Britain Schools district. A devoted mother, Rita was actively involved in the lives of her children and community. Her dedication was evident through her participation with the SHS Band Backers Club, Girl Scouts, and United Cerebral Palsy. As a grandmother, she continued to be a steady presence in their lives, each of whom held a special place in her heart. The bonds she formed with her grandchildren flourished in countless memories, laughter, and love, each relationship uniquely treasured.
Rita found immense joy spending time outdoors, tending to her flowers in her yard with the same love she gave to those around her. Whether she was enjoying a sunny afternoon by the pool or catching a ride on a motorcycle for a thrilling ride, her zest for life was infectious. Her love for coffee was only matched by her competitive spirit, which shone through in every game of Scrabble or cribbage she played. Always playing by the rules, she taught those around her the value of fair play and good sportsmanship.
Rita's home was a haven filled with laughter and love, where all were welcomed and made to feel valued. She cherished hosting and attending all family events, always bringing a warm smile and open heart to each gathering. Her warmth and kindness left a lasting impact on everyone she met, creating memories that will be cherished forever.
Rita is survived by her daughter, Dawn Pinard and her husband, Jerry; her son, Michael Lagasse; her grandchildren, Ryan Pinard, Stephanie Pinard and her fiancé, Joe Pollaro, Amanda Lagasse, Emily Pinard and her wife, Melissa, and Nicholas Lagasse and his wife, Shannon; her 8 great-grandchildren; her brother and sister-in-law, Peter and Maria Furmonavicius; her nieces and nephews; her cousins, who were more like her sisters and best friends through life, Theresa Zaviskas and Jenny Zaviskas; her special friends, Kay Olmeda and Carrie Riera; her bonus son, Patrick Chagnon; and her dog, Jasper.
Rita was predeceased by her husband, William “Bill” Taylor, and her son, Matthew Lagasse.
Family and friends are welcome to gather on Friday, March 27, 2026, from 4 to 6 PM at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad Street, Plainville. Prayers with words of remembrance will be shared at 5:30 PM. Burial will be held privately. For more information or to leave online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com.

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