Celeste Batchelder

It is with heavy hearts and deep respect that we remember and celebrate the life of an extraordinary individual, whose legacy lingers in the hearts of all who had the blessing to know her.  Celeste (Breault) Bachelder, 85, of Torrington, CT, a beloved wife and dedicated mother  passed away August 30, 2025.  Though words can only touch the surface of the indelible mark she left on family, friends, and her community, it is with gratitude and reverence that we recount her journey—one filled with love, kindness, strength, and purpose.

Celeste was born in Biddeford Maine and grew up in Palmer, Massachusetts, surrounded by the warmth of a close-knit family. Born to parents Clarence and Elida (Pimpare) Breault who instilled in her the values of compassion, integrity, and perseverance, she became the first of six children to fill their home with love. Her siblings, whom she loved dearly are Clarence Breault Jr of New Jersey, Eugene (Robin) Breault of Dover, Arkansas and Diane (Shayne) Norris of Hyde Park, NY. She was predeceased by her brother Roger Breault of Poughkeepsie, NY and her sister Margaret (Frank) Day of Belmonte, NY.

Her heart belonged to her family, as a devoted spouse, parent, sibling, grandparent, and friend, she poured love into every relationship. Together with her husband John Cary, they built a home that was a place filled with love, laughter, support, and amazing food… a place where all who entered felt welcome and cherished. Their partnership of sixty-five years was a testament to the power of companionship, commitment, and shared dreams. Through all the seasons of life—the joys and sorrows, the triumphs, and trials—they stood side by side, hand in hand, facing each challenge with unity, strength, and hope. As a parent, she embodied patience, understanding, and encouragement, guiding their daughters Karen Finello (Dennis) and Kristy Mahoney (Thomas) and their late son John Cary through every stage of life with wisdom and unconditional love. The loss of their son Johnny profoundly affected John and Celeste, and their love and caring for their growing family deepened over the years. Known as Meme to her seven grandchildren (and their friends), she adored and cherished each of them; Sara Hemenway of Plainville, CT, Ian Buckbee of Corpus Christi, TX, Ryan Batchelder of Torrington, CT, Suzanne Finello of Litchfield, CT, Gabriella (Zachary) Donais of West Granby, CT, Aidan Mahoney of Seattle, WA and Liam (Alexandra) Mahoney of Torrington, CT. She also leaves behind four great-grandchildren: Ryan Jr., Leila and Beau Batchelder of Torrington, CT and Kes Donais of West Granby, CT. She has many beloved nieces and nephews who brought and shared so much love with her over the years, treasuring the family gatherings and celebrations with them. Her friendships too throughout her life were treasured and nurtured with care as her circle of friends became chosen family, bound together by years of shared experiences, love and joy. She enjoyed many an outing, activities and community meals with the Saint Francis Women’s Club and Senior Citizens gang in Harwinton and Torrington, as well as going on cruises with her husband and best friend John.

A 1956 graduate of Palmer High School, Celeste did not end her educational journey until she graduated from Kaynor Technical High School Adult Education program in Waterbury C, achieving her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) when she was in her sixties. Just like her Mother Elida, who became an LPN later in life, she was in service to others and in turn would proudly share that her two daughters were nurses too.

Celeste had a career at The Charlotte Hungerford Hospital in the Cardiology department for several decades and that was a source of fulfillment and pride for her as she loved helping to care for people and she did so with compassion, intelligence, and diligence. CHH was her other family, and she touched the lives of so many patients and colleagues alike over the years.

Reflecting on the life of this remarkable woman, so many stories and memories surface—testaments to her character, sense of humor, and unwavering generosity. Loved ones speak of her wisdom, gentleness, and her ability to see the best in everyone. Friends remember adventures, escapades, late-night conversations, as well as the comfort of her presence during difficult times.

To lose such a soul is a profound sorrow, yet her spirit remains in the stories that are told, the lessons that are passed on, and the love that endures. In moments of remembrance, we find both solace and inspiration—reminders that one life, lived with intention and heart, can indeed make a difference.

In saying goodbye, we honor Celeste and her legacy that will never fade. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit lives on—in family, in friends, in the community she served, and in the world that is truly better for her having been here. May her journey onward be one of peace and may those she left behind carry forward their light, guided always by the memory of a life truly well lived.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation scheduled for September 8, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Cook Funeral Home, located at 82 Litchfield St, Torrington, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Church (St. John Paul the Great Parish), 160 Main St., Torrington, CT on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Relatives and friends are asked to meet directly at St. Francis Church. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family. A celebration of Celeste's life will be held at a later date.

Rest in peace Momma Celeste, you are loved!