Filomena Caruso

Filomena “Fran” (Cortigiano) Caruso, 98, of New Britain, beloved widow of Sabatini “Sam” Caruso, entered into God’s eternal care, on Tuesday, October 31, 2023. Fran was born on February 16, 1925 in Waterbury and was the daughter to late Ralph and Raffaela (Vallillo) Cortigiano. Fran met and married the love of her life, Sam in Waterbury where they both grew up. Upon their marriage, they moved and made their lifetime home in New Britain, establishing great relationships with their neighbors. They loved their home so much, they spent their entire life together never moving. Fran and Sam were inseparable, they were both employed at Stanley Works, where Fran was a stenographer and worked there until her retirement.

Fran and Sam truly enjoyed their retirement together until his passing in 1996. They loved to vacation at the Cape and especially loved spending time with their family, and they loved Italian cooking. Fran was a fiercely independent woman-she never drove, always insisting on walking. Fran also had a remarkable memory; she never missed a birthday or anniversary. She would even remember the day you moved into your house! In addition, she loved to collect Hummel figurines; her home was adorned by beautiful pieces that she accumulated over the years.

After a long career as a stenographer, Fran retired from Stanley Works Company of New Britain, where she was loved and respected by all her colleagues. Fran and her husband truly enjoyed their retirement, until his passing in 1996.

Fran is survived by her many nieces and nephews, who enjoyed spending time with her. Each is left with their special memory of Aunt Fran. Even though she lived a long and fruitful life, she left us too soon and she will be greatly missed.

In addition to her cherished husband and her parents, Fran was sadly predeceased by her two brothers, John Cortigiano and Nicholas Cortigiano along with her sister, Lucy Bagley. With a strong and feisty attitude, she lived her life to the fullest and passed peacefully at home. She was a special lady, kind and generous nature.

In respecting Fran’s wishes, a graveside prayer service will be held Monday, November 6 at 10 a.m. at the Calvary Cemetery, 2324 East Main Street, Waterbury. There are no calling hours. The family has entrusted the D’Esopo Funeral Chapel of Wethersfield with the arrangements. If you would like to leave a message of condolence or memory to the family, please do so by visiting www.desopofuneralchapel.com.