KNOX — It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Loretta Pearl Grass of Knox, Maine, on February 11, 2026. She was born on August 5, 1929, in Castle Hill, Maine, to Floyd and Noreen Holmes. At the age of two, her family moved to Freedom, Maine, where she was raised and later attended Freedom Academy. Growing up, she was affectionately known as “Tootsie.”

Loretta married her beloved husband, Raymond Grass, and together they created a life defined by dedication, perseverance, and deep commitment to family. Early in their marriage, Loretta and Ray moved to Connecticut and New York, where they operated dairy farms. They eventually returned to Knox, Maine, where they established their own dairy farm and raised their four children.

Loretta was the heart of her home and an essential partner in the family business. She cared tirelessly for her family, helped manage the dairy farm, and worked at a canning factory in Freedom. After nearly 20 years in the dairy business, Loretta and Ray opened Ray’s Diner. Loretta essentially managed the restaurant and became well known for her baking. Each morning, she rose early to prepare as many as five pies and several dozen donuts—treats that became local favorites.

She was an active and devoted member of Freedom Congregational Church, where she enjoyed cooking and baking for the church’s monthly suppers.

Loretta loved bowling and listening to country music, especially her favorite singer, George Strait. She and Ray enjoyed traveling across the country together and spent many winters in Arizona and Florida, creating treasured memories along the way.

Above all, Loretta was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Her husband, Raymond, predeceased her in 2006. She was also predeceased by her brothers Clinton “Sonny” Holmes and Ronnie Holmes.

She is survived by her brother Dennis Holmes and his wife Cheryl; her four children: Brian Grass and his wife Theo; Bruce Grass and his significant other Crystal Zachary; Lorri Cunningham and her husband Jay; and Larry Grass and his significant other April Hatch.

She leaves behind a growing family who will continue to carry her love and legacy forward.

Loretta was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew her. 

A funeral and celebration of her life will be held Saturday, March 7, at 11 a.m., at the Freedom Congregational Church. Please come and help us say goodbye to this wonderful woman. There will be refreshments and fellowship to share memories about this wonderful woman after the service. 

If you wish to send flowers or other remembrances, they may be sent to Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Avenue, Belfast, Maine 04915. The funeral home will ensure that all floral tributes are delivered to the church. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Loretta’s honor to her beloved Freedom Congregational Church.