Bridget Ballarini

Bridget Diane Ballarini, née Bartolomei, passed away peacefully in Clearwater, Florida on August 3, 2024, at the age of 77. Born on March 4, 1947 in Chicago Heights, Il, Bridget graduated from Bloom Township High School in 1965.

Bridget spent her time reminiscing about lifelong friends and high school adventures, playing trivia games, watching classic movies, and listening to music. Whether opera or "oldies," she always found moments to dance and sing. Recently, Bridget kept her residence staff and nurses on their toes as she taught her neighbors to swear in Italian.

Bridget most loved spending quality time with her family and friends, always opening her home to anyone who needed respite. Her warmth, wit, and lasagna will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Bridget was preceded in death by her beloved parents Mary and Dino Bartolomei, and her dear sister, Dina Brennan. She is survived by a loving family who will continue to honor her memory: son, John (Tia) and daughter, Nicole (Richard Pendleton); grandchildren Isabella, Marino, Kristina (Chris), and Sean (Magdalena); great-grandchildren Xalvadora and Sabine; brother Dennis (Diana).

A celebration of Bridget's life will be held at Tews-Ryan Funeral Home 18230 S. Dixie Highway, Homewood, IL on Thursday, September 5th from 3PM to 5:30PM. In lieu of flowers, the family recommends memorial donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association (alz.org) or to the charity of your choice. For additional information contact tews-ryanfh.com or call 708-798-5300.

Bridget will forever be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend.