Obituary: Ornella Moretti Palumbo (Porto Funeral Homes)

Ornella Moretti Palumbo, 92, of West Haven, CT passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, with her loving family by her side. At Heaven's Gate, Ornella was immediately greeted into the loving arms of her husband Giuseppe (Joseph) Palumbo, and her cherished grandson, Joey Palumbo.

Ornella was born in Senigallia, in Ancona, Italy, on November 22nd, 1933, to Ida and Atillio Moretti. In 1956, at the age of 22, Ornella began her journey from Italy to the United States by boat. Shortly after arriving, she met her future husband, Joe, at the Pioneer Service Station, which he and his brother owned. The two were married in 1957 and shared 63 wonderful years together.

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Ornella was predeceased by her husband, Joseph, her grandson, Joey, her brother, Giorgio Moretti, and her son‑in‑law, Tom Centone. She is survived by her children, Susan Centone, Loredana Morrisroe, and Joseph Palumbo Jr. (Toni Marie); her granddaughter, Bianca Palumbo‑Pavano (Michael); great‑grandchildren Lucia and Giancarlo Pavano; and her sisters, Luciana Chiaramonte and Maria Rossi.

Family was the center of Ornella's world. She was happiest when surrounded by her family, especially her grandchildren. Her kitchen was the soul of her home—a place where love was served as generously with unforgettable meals. She had a true passion for cooking, and Sunday dinners were always something special. Her family will never forget the rich, inviting scent of the fried meatballs drifting from the kitchen and filling the house, almost as if they were dancing their way into your nose to wake you up. That familiar aroma became a hallmark of comfort and joy she created. Her kitchen was a place where family gathered, memories were made, and Ornella made sure that anyone who came though her door never left hungry.

Beyond her home, Ornella enjoyed getting out and having fun: trips to the casino and outings to Green Lake Resort with the East Shore Seniors. Her warmth, her generosity, and her unwavering love, which she gave so freely to her family, will remain with them always.

Ornella will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her kindness, her culinary gifts, her devotion to family, and the strength she carried throughout her life. Heaven has gained a beautiful soul, reunited at last with her husband and grandson.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Smilow Cancer Center, Dr. Joseph Balsamo, and the Yale Blood Draw team in West Haven for their compassion and care during Ornella's illness.

Family and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial in the St. John XXIII Parish at St. John Vianney Church, 300 Capt. Thomas Blvd., West Haven, CT Tuesday morning at 10:00. Interment will be private. There will be No Calling Hours. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ronald McDonald House, Attention: Jane Capua, 860 Howard Ave., New Haven, CT 06519. Arrangements are in care of the PORTO FUNERAL HOME, 830 Jones Hill Rd., West Haven, CT. Sign Ornella's guest book online at www.portofuneralhomes.net.