Obituary: Antonia “Toni” (DiLeone) O’Connell, 55, of Wolcott

Obituary courtesy of Woodtick Memorial

Antonia “Toni” O’Connell, RN
Wonderful wife, mother and sister

WOLCOTT- Antonia “Toni” (DiLeone) O’Connell, 55, chose to end her battle with Alzheimer’s Disease on Tuesday October 10th at VITAS in St. Mary’s Hospital. Toni was the cherished wife of Michael O’Connell of Wolcott and devoted mother of Anthony and Angelina O’Connell.

Toni was born in Waterbury on August 12, 1968, third daughter of the late Anthony and Mary (DiStefano) DiLeone. She graduated from Sacred Heart High School and NVCC where she earned her degree in nursing. She worked as registered nurse most of her life for VITAS Hospice.
After being diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s Disease in 2016, Toni became an advocate for the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Toni spoke at many events. Six years ago, Toni was a guest speaker at The Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement, founded by Maria Shriver, fundraiser dinner in New York City.

Toni had a personality that could light up any room. She was an avid animal lover and enjoyed tending to her many her many pets. Toni also loved reading, fine dining and a good Cosmo Martini.

Toni was a devoted wife of 22 years to Michael and wonderful mother to Anthony and Angelina. Her sisters Grace Ann (DiLeone) McKenna, Maria (DiLeone) Meehan and her husband Martin Meehan will forever be heartbroken along with her nieces and nephews: Anthony McKenna, Adam Meehan, Lauren McKenna, Jeffrey Meehan and Leilynn Burnes, and her sister-in-law Jill and her husband Brian Burnes. Toni will also be deeply missed by her father-in-law Michael O’Connell, her mother-in-law Deborah Carpenter and her husband David Carpenter.

Toni’s family would like to thank: All the caring staff of Vitas Hospice, the Alzheimer’s Association of Southington, Irma Corchado, Molly Young, and Clara Bryan. They hope that you would help in the fight against Alzheimer’s Disease by contributing in her memory to The Alzheimer’s Association 200 Executive Blvd S #4b, Southington, CT 06489.

A celebration of Toni’s life will be held on Friday, November 10, 2023 from 5 to 9 PM at the Wolcott Lions Club 245 Wolcott Rd. in Wolcott. Woodtick Memorial in Wolcott is honored to have been entrusted with caring for Toni’s family at this time. Visit www.woodtickmemorial.com for online condolences.