Rosary (Finocchiaro) Blais, 83, of Hartford, beloved wife of the late Joseph Blais, passed away peacefully at her home on January 23, 2024.

Ro, as she was affectionately called, was born on May 16, 1940, the daughter of Salvatore Finocchiaro and Concetta (Pantano) Finocchiaro and was raised in South Glastonbury, where she raised her own family before moving to Newington. She was a graduate of Glastonbury High School.

Rosary worked for many years as a bookkeeper at the Glastonbury, Newington and Wethersfield Boards of Education. She was a dedicated volunteer in her community as well. After her retirement, she was an active member of the St. Brigid Ladies Guild and for many years served as an election poll worker.

Ro always put her family first. She was an excellent cook and baker. Holidays were a time for her to work her baking magic! Pizzelles, Italian cookies, and spritz cookies were her specialties. To compliment her cooking, she also enjoyed entertaining. For many, many years the family gathered in her presence to celebrate the holidays and other special occasions. She was always a gracious host. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her pride and joy. Whether cooking with them, crafting with them or spending time with them at Gardiner Lake, Ro loved being surrounded by her grandchildren; Hunter, Haley, and Kacey.

Rosary was predeceased by her loving husband of 59 years, Joseph. She is survived by her two sons: Todd Blais and his husband Jeffrey Spiegel, and Kevin Blais and his wife Cindy Blais. In addition, she is survived by her three grandchildren: Hunter Blais and his wife Megan Blais along with their two children (great grandchildren to Rosary) Jaxon and Madelyn; Haley Ramos and her husband Wender Ramos; and Kacey Blais and her partner Jonny McAlister. She is also survived by her sister, Carrie Holman and her husband Brad Holman, along with many nieces, nephews and other loving family members. 

Calling hours will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, January 25, at the Sheehan Hilborn Breen Funeral Home, 1084 New Britain Avenue, West Hartford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, January 26, at St. Brigid Roman Catholic Church, 1083 New Britain Avenue, West Hartford. Burial will follow at Mt. St. Benedict Cemetery, Bloomfield.

Memorial contributions can be made in her honor to the National Kidney Foundation. To view a livestream of the Funeral Mass or to leave an online condolence message for the family, please visit www.SheehanHilbornBreen.com