Obituary: Rachel DeRusso DeGennaro, 104, of New Haven

Obituary courtesy of W. S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home:

Rachel DeRusso DeGennaro, 104, widow of John DeGennaro and youngest child of Francisco and Luisa Ruggiero, born September 6, 1919 in New Haven, CT, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2024 at the Grimes Center in New Haven. Predeceased by her first husband, James DeRusso, and their son, John (Jay) DeRusso. Also predeceased by six siblings Tess Riccitelli, Emily DiNicola, Julia Vanacore, Mary Perrelli, Thomas Ruggiero and Joseph Ruggiero.

Survivors include daughter Paula and son-in-law Paul Baran along with five grandchildren, Tracy Morawa, James DeRusso, Jennifer Butler, Marisa Corso, and Michael DeRusso, nine great-grandchildren and special friend, Lucille Loricco.

It should be noted that during her days working as a travel agent for New Haven Travel, Rachel led numerous groups to many exotic places around the world. She also spent countless hours fundraising for the Auxiliary of the Hospital of St. Raphael.

Her family would like to thank the staff at the Grimes Center for the excellent care shown to Rachel, especially Hermine and Howa, during her stay there, particularly during the days of her final illness.

There are no calling hours. Friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday morning at 10:00 in St. John Bosco Parish at St. Mary Church, 731 Main Street, Branford, CT 06405. Burial will follow in All Saints Cemetery, North Haven.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Grimes Center, 1354 Chapel Street, New Haven, in Rachel's name.