Hollywood legend Jim Carrey is mourning the loss of his older sister, Rita Carrey, who has passed away on November 14 at the age of 68. The news was shared in a heartfelt social media post by her husband, Alex.
In his tribute on Facebook, Alex wrote: “Rita and I have been together for 16 years, and we just got married last year in July in an outdoor wedding she always wanted. Rita had a loving soul and wanted to help everyone, even total strangers.” He added that Christmas was her favorite holiday, so much so that she treated every day with the same festive joy, even organising fundraisers to support local charities, reports the Mirror.
Alex also announced plans for a candlelight vigil in Rita’s honor, set to take place on December 7 in Ontario. In his touching farewell, he wrote: “Goodbye my lover. Goodbye my friend. Until we meet again. You really did have the Time of your Life. Your bestest friend and husband, Alex.”
Rita was one of four siblings, including Jim Carrey, and was deeply proud of her younger brother’s success in Hollywood. Reflecting on his rise to stardom, she once described him as “the world’s greatest actor and comedian.” Rita was a public speaker, author, and radio host, known for her warmth and passion.
Her life, however, was not without tragedy. In 2005, Rita suffered the devastating loss of her son Marty, who passed away at the age of 25. She later wrote a memoir, Growing Up Carrey, which recounted her experiences growing up alongside her famous brother and coping with personal loss.
In the book, she reflected on their challenging upbringing, recalling, “When I look back at it, I didn’t realise we were really homeless. I just thought we were camping. My parents made it a good time. That’s what life was like.” The family also endured the loss of their brother John in 2019.
Tributes poured in following the news of her passing. A former colleague wrote, “So sorry for your loss. Rita and I worked together at Giant FM; she was a wonderful woman with incredible passion and warmth.” Another shared: “I’m so sad to hear this. Rita was a sweet and talented person, so loved by everyone. My condolences to all of her family and friends.”
Former TV host Bob Cowan also paid tribute on social media, writing: “RIP Rita Carrey. My dear friend passed away yesterday after a lengthy illness. [Rita] was first and foremost a great mom, a talented singer, a radio host, and always a proud big sister to [Jim Carrey]. I will forever miss her big laugh and smiles.”
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