Obituary: Nellie Paolini, 103, Of Easton

Information and Photo Courtesy Spear-Miller Funeral Home

EASTON, CT — Adoring and devoted daughter of Lazarus and Iole Paolini, Nellie was born November 28, 1919, in Bridgeport. Whether you knew her as daughter, sister, aunt, great aunt, godmother or friend, all fell under the collective of family. After World War II, she moved with her family to Easton, where she lived for over sixty years before transitioning to Saint Joseph’s Health Care Center in Trumbull.

Nellie was filled with pride by what her parents had accomplished in their lifetimes, and enjoyed her time helping them in their store before their move to Easton. She was especially fond of working the penny candy counter before school, when she could fill the bags of her classmates with the sustenance needed for the day ahead. After graduating from high school and business school, she continued to assist them with her bookkeeping skills, before finally taking a position as office manager with Caposella, Cohen, and Engelson.

Over the decades (yes, all ten of them!) work never stood in the way of a good time. From celebrations at the Marchegian Club, to dancing at the Ritz Ballroom, or a trip to New York City for a night at the Stork Club or the Metropolitan Opera, she loved it all!

But most important to her were her family and friends. Catching up in person, by written word, or by telephone, she could chat for hours. Even as her mind failed her, the conversations continued. Talking to those we could not see, she would often hush anyone entering her room, so she could finish a conversation, or, on a good day, offer an introduction.

Her final years were filled with grace, dignity, and comfort, made possible by the skill and compassion of the gifted caregivers at St. Joseph’s Health Care Center, United Health Care, and Compassus.

Services and burial, at Nellie’s request, are private.