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DeFonzo, Virginia DeRosa
Virginia DeFonzo, 102, a lifelong resident of West Haven, entered into eternal rest September 12, 2016 after a long courageous battle with Parkinson’s. She was the beloved wife of 70 years to the late Ralph J. DeFonzo, the love of her life. Virginia was born in West Haven on June 18, 1914, daughter of the late John and Jennie Federico DeRosa. Devoted mother of Diane (Robert) Nehrkorn, Paul (Diane) DeFonzo and Dolores (Cliff) Ennico. Proud grandmother of Christopher and Jennifer DeFonzo and Duffy, her grandchildren’s precious Pomeranian. Virginia was predeceased by her four brothers, Thomas, Leby, James and Charles DeRosa and her two sisters Raffella (Ray) Bosco and Frances Caprio. Virginia was a meticulous homemaker and a loving wife and mother to her family. She loved to travel to visit family in Florida and to take many vacations. She especially loved to cook and her meals were Italian delicacies. She was deeply religious and was an active member of St. Paul’s Church. She loved family gatherings which were a big part of her close-knit family. On the occasions of her 95th birthday and again her 100th birthday many family members and friends gathered to celebrate and honor Virginia. On those occasions she was honored to have received proclamations from the mayor, the governor, the president and even the Pope. Virginia was stricken with Parkinson’s in her early 90’s. When in 2007 she could no longer stand nor walk and was confined to a wheelchair, she never complained and always remained positive. Instead she enjoyed her wheelchair rides in the neighborhood, sitting out in the sunshine and talking to her neighbors. Never a harsh word for anyone, Virginia saw the good in all people. As a result she left footprints in the lives of all who knew her. Virginia’s children would like to express their deepest love and gratitude to their Mom’s guardian angel, Maria Titvelashvilie, who was their Mom’s most loving and empathetic 24/7 care provider for the past seven years, which allowed Virginia to remain in her own home. Virginia’s children would also like to express their deepest gratitude to Genine Tannoia and her wonderful, caring staff at Montowese Health and Rehabilitation Center, including Dr. Hong, for their exceptional, compassionate care. They would also like to thank Olympia who brought their Mom Holy Communion each week when she was no longer able to attend Mass.
The hours for visitation will be Thursday from 4 to 7pm at the West Haven Funeral Home at the Green. Her funeral procession will leave the funeral Home Friday morning at 9:30 for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 in St. Paul’s Church. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery. Should friends desire contributions may be made to St. Lawrence School, 231 Main Street, West Haven, CT 06516.

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