Teofila Balagtas

Teofila (Josef) Balagtas, affectionately known as Ella, of Monroe, CT, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026 at 80 years of age. Born in the Philippines to the late Teodoro and Consolacion Josef, Ella made Connecticut her lifelong home.

A dedicated professional, Ella found great fulfillment in her career as a hematologist at Bridgeport Hospital, where she spent many happy years serving her community. A devoted servant of her faith, Ella was a lifelong parishioner and frequent volunteer at St. Jude parish in Monroe, CT, where her children attended primary school. Ella was an adventurous soul who loved exploring different cultures and countries. At home, she was deeply passionate about sharing her Filipino heritage through cooking, making many traditional dishes for all to enjoy. Those who knew Ella will remember that she was an avid fan of the New York Yankees, but her greatest passion was reserved for the UConn Huskies Women’s Basketball team, whom she cheered for with unwavering loyalty.

Ella is survived by her devoted sons, Conrad Balagtas, his wife Lynn Marie, and grandchildren Trevor and Josephine (Josie); and Ted Balagtas, his wife Rebekah, and grandchildren Joshua and Sarah. She is also survived by her siblings Juanito Josef and his wife Mirasol; Soledad Josef; Romeo Josef and his wife Sabrina; Efren Josef; and Crispin Josef. She was preceded in death by siblings Severina, Delpin, Avelino, and Celia.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday, March 13, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Cyril F. Mullins Funeral Home, 399 White Plains Rd., Trumbull, CT. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Jude’s Church, 707 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe, CT.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Red Cross. Please visit redcross.org/donate and select "Dedicate this gift" to include Ella's name.

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