Shirley L. Rakiec Gravelle, 89, of Middletown, beloved wife of the late Joseph M. Gravelle, passed away on August 13, 2025 at Water’s Edge Center for Health and Rehabilitation. Loving mother of John T. (Christine) Sarracco Jr. of Wallingford and Michele E. Sarracco of Moodus. Grandmother of Brandon M. (Alexis) Sarracco and Chelsey M. Sarracco. Great grandmother of Annabelle, Lucas, Nicholas and Maverick Sarracco; Lennon Tino and Amara Dancer. Sister of the late Dolores and Stanley T. Rakiec. Shirley was born on September 27, 1935 daughter of the late Stanley Rakiec and Philomena DiBiaso Rakiec Maiorano. Prior to her retirement, Shirley was employed by S.N.E.T. She was famous for her cheesecake; loved animals, especially dogs; and always found time to bake and bring cookies to the Middletown Fire Department.
Family and friends are invited to a Graveside Service Monday, August 18, 2025, at St. Lawrence Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. Please meet at the cemetery office at 10:45 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue at www.ygrr.org. Arrangements are in care of the PORTO FUNERAL HOME, 234 Foxon Rd. (Rte. 80), East Haven. Sign Shirley’s guest book online at www.portofuneralhomes.net.
