Judith Ann Ratigan (1939 – 2025)

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 early years as a member of the parish council, she sang in the church choir and taught Sunday school. In addition to her spiritual contributions, Judith was renowned for her creativity and skilled artistry as a church decorator, playing a significant role in enhancing the sanctuary of her parish through the branding of pews, statues, and decorative elements.

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 were able to fly again. Her passion for nature and animals remained a quiet undercurrent throughout her life.

Judith was actively engaged in public life, advocating for causes that aligned with her beliefs. She participated in March for Life events in Washington, D.C., and supported political viewpoints and activities aligned with her values when possible. Her commitment to her convictions reflected a thoughtful, principled approach to civic engagement.

Judith’s steadfast faith, unwavering love for her family and friends, and clear, 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, as well as both of her siblings, Jim Meisinger and Virginia Meisinger. She was also predeceased by her beloved husband, Thomas J. Ratigan Sr.

Her children and their spouses are Judith’s survivors: son Thomas Edward Ratigan 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.