Constance J. Ballato, true Renaissance woman

Constance J. Ballato, 72, of Rehoboth Beach, passed away surrounded by her family, Monday, Aug. 4, 2025.

Connie was born in Bluefield, W.Va., July 22, 1953, daughter of the late Ted and Nedra Jennings. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, David and Stephen Jennings; and nephew Bryan Jennings. She is survived by her devoted husband of 52 years, Carl Ballato; her children Christina Best, David and Lenka Ballato, and Kate and Bobby Webb; her brothers, Jerry Jennings (Cindy) and Kevin Jennings (Cindi); and her grandchildren, Rachael Best (Matthew), Juliauna Wagner (Isaiah), Ariana, Bobby III and Shaylee Webb.

Connie was a true Renaissance woman. She lived her life with passion, continuously seeking new knowledge, weaving her talents and skills into her many expressions of art.

She was an IT specialist for Columbia Gas in Wilmington, retiring in 1996, and moving to Lewes, where she worked as an office administrator for Lewes Presbyterian Church and was an active member of the choir and praise band, where she loved sharing her immense talent for music. She taught herself to play the hammered dulcimer and had a beautiful voice. In addition to that, she was the sole owner and artist of Sun Glass Studio in Sussex County. Her many works can be seen in homes and churches across Delaware. Her fused glass blanket is now a part of the Delaware History Museum’s permanent collection. Another window in the Delaware Court of Chancery, and even had a window, consisting of over 2000 pieces of glass chosen by Sen. Tom Carper, displayed in his conference room in Washington, D.C.

She was an amazing woman who persevered through every hardship with immeasurable dignity and grace. The void that was left with her departure from this earth is deeply felt by the many lives she has touched. She was so grateful for all the support and love she received, and was an incredible inspiration to all.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Constance Ballato to PennMedicine’s online giving page, giving.apps.upenn.edu.