Obituary of Marilyn F. Petrafesa

Marilyn E. (Flaherty) Petrafesa, 87 of East Haven passed away March 6, 2024 after a brief illness at Montowese Health Center. She was born October 7, 1936 in New Haven to Charles and Emily (Mook) Flaherty. Marilyn is survived by her three loving children; Charles Petrafesa (Danielle) of North Haven, Virginia McLay (Todd) of Antrim, NH and Susan Nurnberg (Chuck) of East Haven along with four grandchildren she adored; Emily Petrafesa, Laura Petrafesa, Petra McLay and Luci McLay. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Marilyn is preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband, Angelo Petrafesa (2011) and a sister, Geraldine Lyke (2017). She is also predeceased by all her wonderful in-laws and nine nieces and nephews. Marilyn proudly worked for the East Haven School Board for over 35 years. She started her teaching career in Special Education, then as an elementary Librarian, until becoming a Librarian aide after her retirement. Marilyn was an avid fan of the New York Mets throughout their high and sometimes very low seasons. She also never wanted to miss any UCONN women or men’s basketball game. She enjoyed playing weekly card games with family and friends, and always enjoyed a trip to one of Connecticut’s casinos. The family would like to extend a special "Thank You" to mom’s most awesome and helpful neighbors through the years, Yale Home Hospital Team, her favorite aide, Maureen N., all the staff who made her stay comfortable at Montowese Rehabilitation and lastly to the Athena Home Health and Hospice for their compassionate care. A private graveside service will be held at All Saints Cemetery in North Haven and under the care of the Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home (Clancy Funeral Home), 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Athena Home Health and Hospice, Attn: Staci Brody, 135 South Road, Farmington, CT 06032 in memory of Marilyn Petrafesa.