Jeanne R. McGarrity

Jeanne R. (Repas) McGarrity, 80, of Torrington, CT, unexpectedly and peacefully passed away on Sunday, October 12, 2025.

Jeanne spent her whole life in Torrington, and she truly made it her home—filled with love, laughter, and a deep care for the people around her. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Jean Repas, and her husband, Bill McGarrity. Jeanne was widowed young, but she poured her heart into raising her kids and staying close with family and friends. For years, she volunteered in the mammogram department and later became a familiar face at the Sullivan Senior Center—helping out in the thrift shop and even serving as a Commissioner. She was proud to be an Elk, too. Jeanne was the kind of person who made everyone feel welcome and loved to talk.

Her heart found joy in her partner, Howie Caine, and her dogs Joey and Cooper, who were never far from her side. Jeanne adored the Cape, cherished reading, basking in the sun, and wore her nose ring with pride. She never left home without her hair styled and makeup perfectly done. She loved making Christmas cookies around the holidays and, if you ever needed to find her, a trail of tissues often marked the way.

Jeanne shared a lifelong bond with her beloved younger brother, Jack. Though she often joked that he picked on her—as brothers famously do—her love for him ran deep. Throughout her life, she would grow anxious if too much time passed without hearing his voice, a testament to the comfort and connection they shared.

Jeanne loved her kids with all her heart, and they never had to wonder how much she cared—it was just always known. Her bond with her daughter Gretchen was something truly special. They were two peas in a pod, always together, always laughing, and sometimes getting into a little trouble. That closeness ran deep, and the space she leaves behind is hard to put into words. In her later years, Jeanne was surrounded by love and comfort, thanks to Gretchen and Howie, who cared for her in the cozy in-law apartment Gretchen had thoughtfully designed just for her.

Jeanne cherished the long, meaningful conversations she shared with her youngest and only son, Ryan. Her heart would light up every time he affectionately called her by his special nickname, “Bean.”

And her eldest, Heather, will deeply miss their nightly phone calls and weekend visits—always filled with advice, love, and laughter.

Jeanne’s love for her four grandchildren was endless, always ready to brag about their latest accomplishments with pride and joy. They knew Grammie’s Dunkin’ Donuts order by heart, a sweet reflection of the countless cozy moments they shared. She delighted in surprising Drew and Reese with treats when they were little, creating cherished memories that linger still.

Summers were sacred to Jeanne, especially the time spent with Heather, Todd, Christopher, and Alyssa at the Cape spending hours on the beach basking in the sun. These annual gatherings filled her heart and soul with joy, laughter, and lasting connection.

She treasured quiet coffee chats with Alyssa, savoring both the brew and the bond. One of her most joyful recent memories was attending Christopher’s wedding to Katie this past June—a celebration she spoke of often, her heart full of love and gratitude.

Jeanne is survived by her son Ryan McGarrity and his wife Jodie of Watertown, CT; her daughters Heather Tweeddale and her husband Todd of Granby, CT, Gretchen Holloway and her husband John of Torrington, CT; her brother John "Jack" Repas and sister-in-law Rita of Cornwall Bridge, CT; four grandchildren, Christopher Tweeddale and his wife Katie, Alyssa Tweeddale, Drew McGarrity and Reese McGarrity as well as cherished family members, her significant other, Howard Caine of Torrington and his daughter Michelle Caine.

Jeanne was blessed with deep, lasting friendships. She cherished her gym friends—Judy Pfeffer, Barbara Colangelo, Lyn McLeod, Paula Meada, and Ellie Dattollo—and her lifelong companions Janet Recidivi, Betty Marinaccio, Cathy White, Barbara Czapor, and Darcia Sequin. These treasured friends brought her laughter, comfort, and enduring love.

Jeanne’s life was a beautiful story woven with devotion, humor, and warmth. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025, with the cortege leaving at 10:30 a.m. from Cook Funeral Home, 82 Litchfield St., Torrington, CT to St. Peter Church (St. John Paul the Great Parish), 99 East Main St., Torrington, CT, for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Hillside Cemetery. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Cook Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sullivan Senior Center, 88 East Albert St., Torrington, CT 06790.