Judith Mae Blass

Judith Mae (Rategan) Blass, age 81, of Torrington, CT, passed away peacefully in the early hours of February 7, 2026, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loving family and her beloved cat, Mittens.

Born on March 23, 1944, in Winsted, CT, Judith was the second daughter of the late Robert J. Rategan and Alice H. (Donne) Rategan.

Judith was a devoted and hardworking single mother of four who dedicated more than 20 years of service to the State of Connecticut. In addition to her state employment, she worked multiple housekeeping jobs to provide for her family and ensure they had everything they needed. Her strength, determination, and selflessness defined her life.

She had a special place in her heart for animals, especially the many cats and dogs she lovingly took in and spoiled, affectionately calling them "her babies."

Judith found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved playing bingo, visiting tag sales, penny auctions, and thrift stores. In her later years, she enjoyed relaxing with word searches while watching the Game Show Network, Little House on the Prairie, and the Hallmark Channel.

Judith is survived by her children: Sandra B. Keyes and her partner, Cyrus Shores, of Bennington, VT; Robert J. Blass and his wife, Jennifer, of Winsted, CT; Ronald T. Blass and his wife, Judy, of Waterbury, CT; and James A. Blass and his wife, Paula, of Torrington, CT.

She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Joshua A. Blass and his wife, Samantha, and their children, Aria and Liam, of Torrington, CT; Heather M. Keyes of Torrington, CT; Aubrey P. Blass, Stephanie S. Blass, and Evan J. Blass of Winsted, CT; Christoper Carbone of Torrington, CT; and Jeffrey T. Alfano of Shelton, CT.

She is further survived by her beloved niece, Diane Kirsch; her husband, Scott; and their children, Rebeccah and Zachary, all of Winsted, CT.

Judith was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Alice; her sister, Barbara Blaney; her infant grandson, James D. Blass; and her lifelong partner, Ralph D. "Rocky" Shores III.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, February 18, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service will take place on Thursday, February 19, at 11:00 a.m. at Montano-Shea Funeral Home, 922 Main Street, Winsted, CT. A graveside service for close family and friends will be held in the spring.

A celebration of life reception will be held at The Little Red Barn Brewers, 32 Lake Street, Winsted, immediately following the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local animal shelter in Judith's memory. Visit an online guestbook at montano-shea.com.