Jean Grass

Jean Carol Grass (Perretta), 84, of New Britain, Connecticut, passed away surrounded by her family on January 9, 2026, in her hometown.

Born on March 10, 1941, in New Britain to Lucy and Venture Perretta, Jean was a proud graduate of New Britain High School, Class of 1959. She went on to build a dedicated career serving her community through positions at the Department of Labor and the New Britain Public Schools.

Jean was married for 58 years to her devoted husband Wayne, with whom she shared a life full of laughter and love. Although she never officially served in the military, Jean was a four-star general in battles with Wayne. Together they raised two daughters, Sandra Dowle and Amy Grass Torres, whom she adored, and who loved her wholeheartedly. Jean also cherished her sons-in-law Simon Dowle and Thomas Torres-Onisto. Her greatest pride and joy were her grandchildren—Emma, Owen, and Eliot Dowle—whom she treasured and spoiled at every opportunity. She took great pride in bending the rules, always filling their hearts, and never missing a chance to say yes. Through extra hugs, special surprises, and treats, she delighted in them in ways only she could--while also helping shape them into the people they have become. Every moment together was unforgettable.

Jean was predeceased by her parents, her sister Nancy Perretta, and her brother-in-law Peter Grass. She is survived by her cherished sister-in-law and lifetime best friend, Jeanne Grass of Vermont, two brothers: John and Robert Perretta, sister-in-law Judy Logan (Dan), and a large, loving family of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A woman of fierce spirit and boundless generosity, Jean was known for speaking her mind with wit and warmth. She had a legendary sense of humor and was known for her zingers and one-liners, shared with honesty and sass. A true firecracker, she embraced life fully--whether it was traveling near or far, enjoying country music, heading to the casino for some fun, or gathering around the table for a game of Left Right Center with family.

Her sports loyalties ran deep--from an unwavering devotion to UCONN Women's basketball to a love/hate relationship with the Yankees, rooting for them fiercely, questioning their decisions loudly, and never missing a chance to watch. In her youth, she was an excellent athlete—especially on the softball field. In later years, she loved entertaining as much as being entertained and found joy in going out to eat and spending time with those she loved most.

Though she embraced technology, she never remembered a single password. Jean's heart always belonged to simpler joys: family dinners, laughter-filled gatherings, and moments spent surrounded by those who mattered most. Her only fears were bridges, bees, and bears—but nothing else ever slowed her down.

Jean was also a faithful member of Wellspring Church, where she found fellowship and purpose. The Wellspring community deepened her love and faith in the Lord, and provided her with great comfort.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her—as tough as she was loving, and as sharp as she was kind. Jean believed deeply in the power of small gestures of thoughtfulness, knowing that even the simplest act could brighten someone's day. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Jean in the ways she would love best: having fun with loved ones, speaking the truth, playing a game of cards, dice, or dominos, putting on a comfy flannel shirt (or two!), and loving unconditionally.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Wellspring Church, 222 Lincoln Street, Kensington, CT. Flannel shirts are encouraged!