Carmel Mary Forte Apuzzo, beloved mother, grandmother and faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026 in Cookeville, Tennessee at the age of 96. Born on February 7, 1930 in New Haven, Connecticut Carmel was the daughter of the late Louis and Mary Corso Forte. She spent most of her life in East Haven, Connecticut where she built a home filled with love, warmth, and unforgettable family traditions. Carmel was preceded in death by her devoted husband, William Cosmo Apuzzo Sr.; her sister, Anne Vuksinic; and her brother, Andy Forte. She is survived by her loving children: David and Diane Apuzzo, Billy and Rose Apuzzo, Jeannie and Bill Knotts, and Janet and Don Stadolnik. Nothing brought Carmel greater joy than her grandchildren: David Apuzzo, Karen Stadolnik, Billy Knotts, Don Stadolnik, Angela Apuzzo, Lori Apuzzo, Tina Knotts, Jean Marie Apuzzo, and Daniel Apuzzo, all of whom she cherished deeply. Carmel is also survived by 16 great grandchildren and her siblings: Nick Forte, Fran Null, and Margaret Stavris. Carmel was a devoted wife and homemaker who poured her heart into raising her children and keeping her family close. Beyond her role at home, she worked as an Assembler for Honeywell Corporation, a position she held with pride. Her true passion, however, was always her family. She was happiest when everyone was together—especially during her large Sunday dinners that stretched long into the afternoon filled with food, laughter, and love. An avid gardener, Carmel found peace outdoors among her flowers and the animals on the family’s small farm. She delighted in life’s simple pleasures including lunches out and faithfully watching Dancing with the Stars. She also shared a special bond with her beloved myna bird whose familiar greeting of “Who’s breaking the door?” never failed to make her laugh and brought smiles to all who visited. A woman of deep and enduring faith, Carmel was a longtime member of Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church. She kept her saints close and prayed daily for her family offering gratitude, guidance, and protection through her steadfast devotion. Her faith was the quiet strength that guided her throughout her life. Carmel Mary Forte Apuzzo will be remembered for her unwavering love of family, her gentle faith, her joyful laughter, and the legacy of love she leaves behind in all who were blessed to know her.
Family and friends are invited to A Mass of Christian Burial at St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish in Our Lady of Pompeii Church WEDNESDAY morning, January 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery. THERE WILL BE NO CALLING HOURS. Arrangements are in care of the PORTO FUNERAL HOME, 234 Foxon Rd. (Rte. 80), East Haven. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org. Sign Carmel's guest book online at www.portofuneralhomes.net.
