The Carrey family is grieving a profound loss. Rita Carrey, the elder sister of actor Jim Carrey, passed away on November 14, as confirmed by her husband, Alex, in a heartfelt Facebook post on November 15.
“It is with a heavy heart and my deepest sadness,” Alex wrote on her account, “that, surrounded by family and friends, Rita passed away peacefully and quietly.”
Alex reflected on their 16 years together, sharing that although they had been partners for over a decade and a half, they only tied the knot last July in “an outdoor wedding that she had always dreamed of.”
“We traveled the world and met many people who we now consider friends,” he continued. “Rita was my best friend, my lover, and my beautiful wife. She always had a loving soul and wanted to help everyone—even complete strangers.”
Alex also provided a look into Rita’s vibrant personality. According to him, Christmas was her favorite holiday, and she approached the season with such enthusiasm that it felt like Christmas every day. Her passion for the holiday even inspired her to organize a fundraiser benefiting a local charity.
“It’s been a wonderful and crazy journey with Rita,” he wrote. “She brought joy to everyone’s heart with every step she took. I will never forget this beautiful and amazingly talented woman.”
Alex concluded his tribute with a poignant quote from James Blunt’s Goodbye My Lover: “Until we meet again. You really did have the time of your life. Your bestest friend and husband, Alex.”
Honoring Rita’s Legacy
To commemorate Rita’s life, Alex announced plans for a candlelight vigil in her memory. The vigil is scheduled for December 7, 2024, on Heathcote Terrace in St. Catharines.
Additionally, he invited the public to attend the Christmas on the Terrace event, which supports Gillian’s Place, an Ontario-based shelter for survivors of abuse and violence. He also encouraged donations to the organization in Rita’s honor.
Remembering Rita
Born to Kathleen and Percy Carrey, Rita was one of Jim Carrey’s three older siblings, alongside John Carrey—who passed away in 2019—and Patricia Carrey.
Rita had a long career as a radio host, most recently co-hosting The Peet and Reet Show with Pete Dychtiar. She was also a talented musician, performing with her classic rock group, the Rita Carrey Band.
Her legacy as a vibrant, kind-hearted, and creative individual continues to be celebrated by her family, friends, and fans.
