Lena (Pellici) Monarca, 96, beloved wife of the late Carl G. Monarca Sr., passed away peacefully at her home in Middletown, CT, on Wednesday, November 13, 2024.
Born in Glastonbury, CT, on September 2, 1928, she was the daughter of Emilio and Isola Pellici. Lena graduated from Portland High School, where she played basketball.
Lena worked at the Middletown Board of Education and was a devoted member of St. Sebastian's Church, St. Theresa's Guild, and the Elks Emblem Club. She had a gift for cooking and sewing and was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and UConn basketball.
She is survived by her devoted son, Carl (Rose) Monarca Jr.; her daughters, Jean (Edward) Mozdziesz and Carla Martin; and her eleven grandchildren: Carl S. Monarca, Luke Monarca, Selena Lopez, Jamie Tessmer, Christopher (Emily) Russo, Katie (Matt) Needleman, Lauren (Kyle) Leiblein, Lauren (Dan) Marino, Michelle Galanto, Marie Galanto, and William Martin. She also leaves behind eight great-grandchildren, a great-great-granddaughter, and many nieces and nephews. Lena's frequent visits with Luke, Mason, Travis, and Lucy brought her immense joy.
Lena was predeceased by her brothers, Mario Pellici and Gene (Lynn) Pellici; and her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Morgan (Rose) Monarca, Joseph (Esther) Monarca, Angelina (Nick) Milardo, Salvatore (Josephine) Monarca, and Jack (Lilian) Monarca.
Special thanks to Diana Wemegah, Lena's angel-like caretaker, whose compassionate care brought her peace and comfort.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 22, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. at D'Angelo Funeral Home, 22 South Main Street, Middletown, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:00 p.m. at St. Sebastian's Church, with burial at the Veterans Cemetery in Middletown.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Sebastian's Church.