Obituary: Emilia DeVita Cusanelli, 92; Formerly Of North Haven

NORTH HAVEN, CT — (From Cody-White Funeral Home): Emilia DeVita Cusanelli, 92, of Milford, formerly of North Haven, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2023. Emilia was the beloved wife of the late Dr. Gabriel N Cusanelli for 53 years. Born on March 23, 1931, in New Haven, she was the daughter of the late Enrico and Gemma Veniero DeVita.

Emilia spent a happy childhood in New Haven and enjoyed summers with her parents, family and friends at their summer home on Cosey Beach in East Haven. Emilia was a proud graduate from the University of Connecticut, class of 1953.

After college Emilia traveled throughout Europe and took an extensive road trip across the United States. These adventures sparked a lifelong interest in travel which she enjoyed with Gabe and her children.

Emilia began her professional career as a social worker for the State of Connecticut, working at the department of Family Services. Emilia met Gabriel in 1958 and they were married in May 1960. Emilia and Gabe started a family in 1961 and after their two children left for college, Emilia managed the office of her husband’s medical practice in New Haven.

For over 30 years, Emilia and Gabe spent the winter months at their residence in Naples Florida. Emilia and Gabe were members of the Farms Country Club for 40 years where they enjoyed golf and made lifelong friends.

After 45 years together in North Haven, they moved to Baldwin Station in Milford. While living in Milford, they enjoyed the company of wonderful neighbors in the Baldwin Station community. Emilia was always energetic, enthusiastic and her warm smile and positive attitude would brighten every room she entered. Her outgoing personality and thoughtful nature will be missed by her family and friends.

Emilia leaves behind her son, Attorney Gabriel H. Cusanelli and her daughter, Elizabeth (Stephen) Raccuia and her 5 grandchildren Andrew, Talia and Krissandra Cusanelli, Christopher and Clare Raccuia, as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family members. She was predeceased by her sister Gemma Peters and her brother Judge Henry DeVita and her niece Diana Devita.

Emilia’s family would like to thank Home Care Plus Hospice (nurses Anna, Jenny, Pastor Dana, social worker Mary), Dr Holly Craig, Dr Linda Rosenfeld and Yale Cardiology and The Yale Winchester Pulmonary Clinic, Dr Christopher Morton and Dr Ashley Losier. She received excellent and compassionate care from all the above-mentioned health care providers.

Interment will be private. A celebration of life will be arranged at a later date by the family. In lieu of Flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Episcopal Church, 1734 Huntington Tpk, Trumbull, CT.

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit Cody-White Funeral Home here.