Recent Obituaries from Branford

BRANFORD, CT — Recent obituaries from Branford.

Phyllis Richitelli, 83, passed away peacefully June 22. A lifelong Branford resident, she graduated from Branford High School and belonged to St. Mary’s Ladies Guild. She worked for Pediatric Associates of Branford for 48 years before retiring. She enjoyed reading, knitting, and watching General Hospital, UConn Women’s Basketball, the New York Giants and the New York Yankees.

Joseph Peter Rollo, 74, passed away June 23. He joined the Navy in 1971 and was a proud veteran. He worked as an electrical engineer and was plant manager at ACG Electronics, which ultimately was purchased by Data Physics. He was a dedicated Boy Scout leader and filled with pride that both his sons became Eagle Scouts. A member of the Branford Exchange Club, he was famous for making fried dough at the Branford Festival annually. Additionally, he supported BHS athletics, filming football and hockey games for AD’S Jake and Sav. He was also a member of the Westbrook Elks Lodge.

James Johnson, Jr. “Dinky” 92, passed away June 27. A St. Paul’s College graduate and U.S. Air Force veteran, he was a devoted educator in the New Haven Public Schools, retiring from Hillhouse High. A man of faith and active member of St. Stephen’s AME Zion Church, he also shared his love of music by teaching and performing saxophone and organ. As a key figure in New Haven’s jazz scene and owner of Dinky’s Café, he left a lasting legacy as an educator, mentor, and jazz legend.