Judith Elizabeth Clayton, 89, of Middletown Connecticut, wife of Eli Rascati, passed away peacefully on May 31st at home surrounded by family and loved ones.  She was born on November 23rd, 1934, to Eric and Mary (nee, Aldrich) Clayton.  She grew up in Rye Beach, New Hampshire, spending many hours alongside the Ocean.  As a young adult, she was a graduate of the University of Hartford, earning a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Fine Arts.

Judith worked for many years as the Head of the Art and Music department at Tolland High school, retiring after 37 years.  She was also class advisor and mentor to many graduating classes and is remembered for having a positive influence on her students and colleagues.  She is remembered for her beautiful smile, her skinny legs, kind & gentle nature, her independence & strength, her patience and immense love of family.

Judith was known for her joie de vivre and her openness to life's adventures, particularly travelling.  She and Eli had many wonderful excursions travelling cross country with their dogs (Quincy, Odin, and Lola), as well as to Alaska, the Florida Keys, and the Caribbean.  She also visited England, Denmark, Hungary, and Germany.   She had a lifelong passion for nature, most especially the ocean.  She also loved flowers & butterflies, cooking, entertaining, and her many pets, especially her dogs.  As an artist, her passion for painting, printmaking, and sculpture were evident. She also enjoyed visual arts and attending the theater.

Besides Judith's husband Eli, she is survived by her son Geoffrey Holmes and his wife Jennifer of Ellington Connecticut; her daughter Jennifer Holmes of Oakland California; step son Michael Rascati and his wife Deborah of Portland Connecticut; her grandchildren Eric Holmes, Elizabeth D'Antonio, Connor Holmes and Patrick Ruel; as well as great grandchildren Wesley, Skyla, and Kamryn.  Michele Dery, her caregiver during the last several years, deserves our gratitude and love for her devotion and selflessness.

A Funeral Service will be held at Biega Funeral home on June 15th at 11:30AM, located at 3 Silver Street in Middletown. Prior to the service, friends may visit from 10:00AM to 11:30AM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers you can make donations in Judith's name to the Connecticut Humane Society.  To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.