Obituary: Theresa M. Raccio, 85, Of Hamden

HAMDEN, CT — (From Peter H. Torello & Son Funeral Home): Theresa M. Raccio of Hamden passed away peacefully on December 24, 2023, at Benchmark Senior Living Center of Hamden. Born in New Haven, CT daughter of Joseph and Josephine Palmieri, she was predeceased by her husband Benjamin L. Raccio.

She is survived by their three children Janice (Robert), Joseph (Dawn), and Paul (Beth). Her legacy lives on through her 7 grandchildren Jonathan (Christine), Benjamin (Julianne), Meredith (Joe), Loren (Daniel), David, Madeline (Connor), and Jessica. The light of her life also lives on through her 10 great grandchildren Connor, Jaxon, Adelina, Nora, Owen, Julien, Willow, Logan, Jiovani, and Leni Maye. Theresa is also survived by her brother Arnold Palmieri (Joanne).

Family was everything to Theresa, and for 58 years she was joined by her husband, children, and eventually grandchildren and great grandchildren for an annual family vacation at Lake Winnipesaukee. She was an avid Hockey fan, and she could be found every year cheering on the Yale Bulldogs at Ingalls Rink.

Theresa was creative, artistic, and magical in her ability to grow any kind of plant and create beautiful flower arrangements. Nona/Great Nona was the matriarch of the Raccio clan. She lived her life dedicated to her family and spent many hours caring for her people; attending sporting events, dance recitals, plays, and art shows as a very proud grandparent. Her beautiful smile and optimistic outlook on life were contagious.

Theresa was a woman of deep faith. She was active as a parishioner of Blessed Sacrament Church and then Saint Rita’s Church in Hamden, where she served as a CCD instructor and lecturer. She was a member of the Columbiettes and was part of the Apostles of Sacred Heart prayer group. She was always recognized by families of the community where she lived, and especially beloved by the many students who fondly remember their time in her religious education classes.

Theresa worked for 35 years at the VA Hospital in West Haven and the Yale Development Office. Prior to that she worked as an aide at Dunbar Hill School.

Calling hours will be held TUESDAY Jan. 2 from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. in the Peter H. Torello & Son Funeral Home., 1022 Dixwell Ave, Hamden. Friends are asked to go directly to St. Rita Church Wednesday 10 a.m. for a Mass of Christian burial. Interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity in Theresa’s memory.

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit Peter H. Torello & Son Funeral Home here.