Ronita L. Hammond died unexpectedly on Wednesday morning at her home in Melrose on Sept. 3rd at the age of 76. Born and raised in Charlestown, she graduated from Charlestown High School. Ronita was a self-employed hairdresser and boutique owner having operated Ronita's Fashions on Wyoming Ave., Melrose for 10 years, The Clothing Boutique on Elm St in Everett for 5yrs, Ronita's Hair Salon in Medford Sq. for 5yrs and Chateau Venes in Malden for several years. Ronita was a resident of Melrose for the past 30 years, after living in Illinois for several years. Ronita was the wife of the late Richard E. Hammond. Mother of Richard E. Hammond Jr of Melrose. Sister of Lee Langlois of Malden, Jerry Schiavo of Malden, Tia Mazza of Stoneham, Era Schiavo of Malden, Joey Schiavo of Malden, Anna Cassidy of Saugus and Gina Dowling of Tewksbury. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral Services will be held in the Gately Funeral Home 79 W Foster St Melrose, on Friday Sept 5 at 11AM. Relatives and friends invited. Visiting hours prior to the service from 9 AM to 11AM. Graveside services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Animal Rescue league of Boston, 10 Chandler St Boston.