Barbara Jane Rossitto

Barbara Jane Rossitto, 84, passed away on May 4, 2025, surrounded by an immeasurable and unwavering circle of love. Known affectionately as Jane or "Barbie", she was born on March 22, 1941, in St. Louis, Missouri, to the late Vurlin and Loretta (Gidley) Ward.
Jane graduated from Buckley High School, Hartford in 1960, where she met the love of her life, Richard Rossitto. They shared 62 years together before Richard's passing in 2023.
Family was at the heart of everything Jane did. She created unforgettable holiday memories in the family home, infusing every celebration with tradition, and handmade touches. From heartfelt gifts to sharing her kitchen preparing delicious meals, she brought joy and comfort to all who gathered around - no one made the holidays more special than her.
A gifted craftswoman, Jane's creativity knew no bounds. Her whimsical ceramic creations grace the homes and gardens of many loved ones. She found joy in quilting, sewing, and crafting items she proudly sold at local craft fairs, always with her husband by her side. Her generous spirit extended far beyond her family - she, along with friends made countless blankets for newborns in neonatal intensive care units at local hospitals and for children in Haiti.
Jane loved a good adventure, whether exploring Bermuda, Italy, Florida, or simply taking a day trip to the shore, she cherished every moment. She especially treasured her regular trips to Maine with her best friend, Donna (Greenough) Simmons.
Jane enjoyed mini-golf, fishing and Skippo with her grandchildren, as well as bingo with her friends and daughters. In her final years, she enjoyed the companionship of her friend and caregiver, Crystal Lewis.
Jane was preceded in death by her husband Richard, her parents and her siblings: Stephen Ward, Rosalee Konikowski, Donald Ward, and Vurlin Ward. She is survived by her children: Jane Golino (David), Deborah Lepri (Frank), William Rossitto (Robin), and Jennifer Jasiorkowski (Matthew); her sister Joanne Pazdaar; her beloved grandchildren: Samuel, Madelyn, John, Camille, Nolan, and Audrey; and her great-grandchildren: Sienna and Sara.
Jane will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. Her love, creativity, and kindness will live on in those she touched.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, May 9, 2025, 10 a.m., at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 673 Ellington Rd., South Windsor. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Memorial Park in Rocky Hill. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Beat Parkinson's Today, 102 Pitkin St., East Hartford, CT 06108. www.beatpdtoday.com