KENNEBUNK — Rheta A. (Gardner) Brochu, 79, of Kennebunk, died peacefully on Sept. 11, 2014 at the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House in Scarborough.

Rheta was blessed with two children, and raised her family in Sanford and Kennebunk. She was an independent and strong woman, who often worked several jobs at one time. Rheta was a hairdresser for close to 42 years, working in Kennebunk at the Smart Set.

Through mutual friends, Rheta met Paul J. Brochu, and they married and lived at Paul’s home in Shapleigh on Mousam Lake. She was the happiest when she and Paul were together. They traveled to Aruba and spent winters in Florida. Rheta loved her cat Suzie Q, which joined her at the Atria in Kennebunk, becoming a favorite with the other residents.

She was “Nana” to her grandchildren, and they were often spoiled with chocolate pudding and could never leave her home without a peppermint patty. Rheta knitted several hats for newborn babies and little preemies that helped to make up the gift bags for young mothers. She was a woman who overcame any challenge that beckoned her doorstep, always with grace and dignity. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by: her husband, Paul J. Brochu; and her brother, Leon.

She is lovingly survived by: her children, Paula J. Ogden of Alfred and Dennis M. Gardner of Rochester, New Hampshire; her two brothers, Dana Barr and George Guthro; her sister, Ethel Mathieu; and two grandchildren.

Family and friends may call on Friday, Sept. 19 from 5-8 p.m. at the Autumn Green Funeral Home, 47 Oak St. in Alfred. A private committal service will be held for the family. To leave a message of condolence for family, visit www.autumngreenfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House, 11 Hunnewell Road, Scarborough, ME 04074. The Autumn Green Funeral Home is respectfully handling arrangements.