Elizabeth "Betty" Reynolds Ruggiero, 72, of East Haven, beloved wife of 48 years to Joseph Ruggiero, passed away after a courageous battle on September 23, 2025, surrounded by her family at Yale New Haven Hospital.
Betty was born on December 20, 1952, in New Haven, Connecticut. She was the daughter of Hubert M. and Nancy Ocone Reynolds and grew up in East Haven, where she graduated from East Haven High School in 1970.
Betty earned a degree from Bay Path College as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree from the College of New Rochelle. She transitioned to Benhaven where she worked as a Residential Administrative Assistant for nearly 40 years until retirement.
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Betty had a passion for gardening, was an avid birdwatcher, music enthusiast and lover of animals. She will always be remembered for her kindness, generosity and unselfishness, along with her unwavering devotion to her family, friends and pets.
She is survived by her husband, Joseph Ruggiero; son, John (Sarah) Ruggiero of North Haven; brother, Patrick Reynolds of East Haven; grandchildren, Nathan James Ruggiero, Olivia Ruggiero and Ian Ruggiero of North Haven; sister-in-law, Judy Holloran (Kevin) of West Haven; sister-in-law, Carmel (Todd) Phillips of East Haven; sister-in-law, Alberta Vitale of Milford; brother-in-law, Vincent (Cindy) Ruggiero of West Haven; brother-in-law, Adolph (Chic) Proto of Clarksville, Tennessee; and sister-in-law, Rose Perrone of Clarksville, Tennessee. Betty was predeceased by brothers-in-law, James (Charlene) Ruggiero of North Haven and Vincent J. (Donna) Ruggiero of West Haven.
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Elizabeth's family would like to thank the entire staff at Yale New Haven Hospital, along with the Smilow Cancer Hospital for their unwavering care, love and attention during these difficult times.
Her funeral procession will leave the PORTO FUNERAL HOME, 234 Foxon Rd. (Rte. 80), East Haven, SATURDAY morning at 9:30 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish in Our Lady of Pompeii Church at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery. Family and friends may call FRIDAY from 5pm to 8pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to any local animal shelter or rescue center in memory of Betty. Sign Elizabeth's guest book online at www.portofuneralhomes.net.
