Obituary: Marlene Frances Perrelli (Porto Funeral Homes)

After a long battle with vascular dementia, Marlene Frances Derrico Perrelli passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by love. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister and friend. Marlene was born in New Haven, Connecticut, on April 14, 1933, to the late Carmine and Frances Derrico (Persico). She attended Wilbur Cross High School and graduated in 1951. There, she met the love of her life, Pasquale Frank (Sonny) Perrelli. They married and shared 72 wonderful years together. Marlene worked as a dental assistant for several local dentists. As her family grew, she became a stay-at-home mom and raised three sons. She was a member of the Hamden Women’s League and volunteered with many charitable organizations. She collected for UNICEF with her sons, sang at local nursing homes, and volunteered at Sacred Heart Academy. Marlene loved to travel. The trip she enjoyed most was to Sorrento, Caserta, and Coste Morrone, Italy, where she visited her grandparents’ hometown. Winters in Hillsboro Beach were a 25-year tradition at her family condo at The Sea Club. Family and friends visited often, and she made so many happy memories there. She especially loved Monday mahjong with her friends. Marlene’s love for her family was her life. She was always there—whether she was babysitting her grandchildren, hosting family holiday gatherings, or simply listening and offering advice. She was loved by all who met her and grateful for every moment of her wonderful life.

We remember her for the steady way she showed up for all of us—quietly, consistently, and with a love you could feel the moment you walked through the door. She had a gift for making everyday moments special, whether it was a holiday meal, a phone call to check in, or an afternoon spent laughing with family and friends. Her devotion to her husband Sonny (Pat), her pride in her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and her generous heart will stay with us always. Marlene is survived by her devoted husband, Sonny (Pat), and the following legacy of family: Sons: Steven (Debra), Gary (Ivy), and David (Allison) Daughter-in-law: Jennie Sisters: Betty Feniolo (predeceased), Deanna Todd, Patricia Peavey, and Jennifer Reeves Grandchildren: Justin (Abby), Stephanie (Meg), Alexa (Jon), Kristen (Chris), Jacqueline (Andrew), Lauren, and Julia. Great-grandchildren: Sonny, Carmen, Chase, Crew, and Ferris. Care Givers Nadine, Sharon and Charlene.

Her funeral procession will leave the PORTO FUNERAL HOME, 234 Foxon Rd. (Rte. 80), East Haven Thursday morning at 11:15. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the St. Paul VI Parish at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Hamden at 12:00 PM. Entombment will follow in All Saints Cemetery, North Haven. Friends may call THURSDAY MORNING from 9:15-11:15. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Assn. at alz.org. Sign Marlene's guest book online at www.portofuneralhomes.net.