Reta was born on June 26, 1928, in Stoneham, to James and Ida (McKenna) Andersen, and grew up in Wakefield. A proud graduate of Wakefield High School, Reta's education was just the beginning of a rich, long life.

In 1951, Reta married her husband Frederick "Frank" Roche, and together they celebrated 49 wonderful years together, eventually settling in Melrose. Their three sons, arriving shortly after their marriage, were her pride and joy. She was an excellent mother, whose generous spirit extended well beyond her family. Reta gave willingly of her time and resources and never hesitated to help someone in need. Like many her age, Reta was a child of the great depression, with no shortage of hardship in her life. Despite that, she was unfailingly steadfast and resilient. She carried herself, and those around her, through life's trials with quiet strength, a quick wit, and a wicked sense of humor.

Reta found comfort in life's simple pleasures; she spent countless hours honing talents in crocheting, knitting, and especially cooking. Her legendary coffee cake was often the first thing to sell out on a bake sale table, and her holiday meals were perennial family favorites. She delighted in trips to the beach, but was perhaps happiest sitting on the porch of her cottage at Hedding Campground, watching her grandkids, and later great grandkids, play outside. She held her drivers license well into her nineties, and could often be found hunting for bargains to bring home for friends and family alike. Her generous, independent spirit will be missed by all those she has left behind.

Reta was the beloved wife of the late Frederick F. Roche with whom she shared 49 years of marriage. Devoted mother of Frederick F. Roche, Jr. and his wife Barbara of Raymond, NH, Ken Roche and his former wife Ruth Roche of Hooksett, NH, and the late Donald Roche and his surviving wife Susan of Saugus. Loving sister of Karen Hall and her husband Walter of Wilmington, the late James Andersen and his late wife Jackie, the late Ken Andersen and his late wife Pauline, and the late Minerva Smith and her late husband James. Cherished grandmother of Fred Roche, Brian Roche, Janie Broadwell and her husband Tim, Adrienne Anderson and her husband Michael and the late Stephanie Roche, and great grandmother of Brynn and Ty Anderson.

Services will be private. Interment in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose.