Judith A. Rohlfs

Judith A. Rohlfs, 85, of Manchester CT, passed away peacefully on Wednesday January 7, 2026.

Judy was born and raised in Pittsfield, MA. She graduated from Pittsfield High School and then UMASS with a degree in elementary education. She taught in Hartford for 2 years, Pomfret for 4 years, and Buckley Elementary School for 30 years. During this time, she continued to further her education at UCONN where she received her Master’s degree in Education as well as a Diploma of Advanced Studies.

Teaching young children was her passion. She also loved being involved with the Map Skills and Math Olympiads programs. She was an active member of the Manchester Education Association and served as President for many years. In addition, in 1992 she was voted Manchester Teacher of the Year.

In addition to her love of teaching, Judy was an avid birder, loved gardening, traveling and photography. In her travels, she visited all fifty states and also spent time camping in many of them. She absolutely loved spending time at Pleasant Pond in Maine watching and listening to the loons as well as snorkeling at St. John. She also traveled to Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

She was a big Red Sox fan and an even bigger UCONN women's basketball fan.

Judy was the third of seven children. Her sister Lucile (Cile) was stricken by MS which led Judy to become very involved with the MS walk in East Hartford. After last year's walk, Team Cile has raised close to $74,000 for MS research over the years.

Judy is predeceased by her sister Lucile and her brother Fred. She leaves her sister Linda of Vernon CT, brothers Bob of Nashua NH, Harry of East Longmeadow MA and Jim of Savage MD. She also leaves several nieces and nephews as well as many grandnieces and grandnephews.

Calling Hours will be at the Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home at 400 Main Street, Manchester CT on Monday, January 19th from between the hours of 4pm to 6pm. The Funeral Service will be Tuesday, January 20th at 11am at South United Methodist Church, 1226 Main St. in Manchester, CT. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National MS Society, South United Methodist Church in Manchester or The Retired Teachers Association of Manchester CT. To leave an online condolence please visit www.homleswatkins.com