Judith Ann Ratigan, 85, of Front Royal, VA, passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 27, 2025.
Born on December 22, 1939 in Omaha, Nebraska, Judith lived out her life in generous service to others. Though she faced the challenges of dementia in her final years, she cherished every moment with loved ones and friends.
Throughout her life, Judith remained a devoted Roman Catholic. She was an active member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Front Royal, VA. In her earlier years as a member, on the parish council, she sang in the church choir and taught Sunday school. In addition to her spiritual contributions, Judith was known for her creativity and skilled artistry as a church decorator, playing a significant role in branding the pews, statues, and decorative elements that enhanced the sanctuary of her parish.
Judith’s professional career, in addition to being a Church Artistic decorator, was as a professional accountant.
Judith found joy in nurturing beauty in all that she did. She was an avid gardener with a love for nature and the Virginia mountains. From a young age, Judith had a remarkable fondness for animals, often rescuing injured birds and caring for them until they could fly again. Her passion for nature and animals remained a quiet undercurrent throughout her life.
Judith was engaged with public life, advocating for causes aligned with her beliefs. She participated in March for Life events in Washington, DC, and supported political viewpoints and activities aligned with her values, when she could. Her commitment to her convictions reflected a thoughtful, principled approach to civic engagement.
Judith’s steadfast faith, unwavering love for family and friends, and clear and principled beliefs left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Her warmth and grace shone through every challenge she faced, including her dementia diagnosis. Judith’s influence on her family and friends will endure for many years to come. May she rest in eternal peace.
Judith was predeceased by her parents, Elmer Meisinger and Anne Meisinger; and both of her siblings, Jim Meisinger and Virginia Meisinger. She was also predeceased by her beloved husband, Thomas Edward Ratigan.
Judith is survived by her children and their spouses: son, Thomas J. Ratigan, Sr. and daughter-in-law Lisa Beth Ratigan, daughter, Maureen Menefee and son-in-law Keith Menefee, son, Timothy P. Ratigan Sr. and daughter-in-law Pamela J. Ratigan, son, Brendan L. Ratigan and daughter-in-law Melissa Postallian, and daughter, Kathleen C Kennan. Judith’s family also includes 15 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Judith’s viewing will be held at 1:00 PM, September 2, 2025 at Maddox Funeral Home, 105 West Main Street, Front Royal, VA with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 2:00 PM at Saint John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church. Interment will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Winchester, Virginia. The family will gather for a celebration and reception following the gravesite/interment.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 120 W. Main Street, Front Royal, VA 22630.