Joseph John Somma Sr.

Joseph John Somma, 93, a longtime resident of Stamford, passed away Tuesday December 17, 2024. He grew up in White Plains, NY, and graduated from Ohio Wesleyan before serving in the Army from 1954-56. After meeting his wife Joan Cuzzi in Westchester, they settled in Stamford and made a home for nearly 58 years. He worked as a salesman for St Regis Paper and later Champion International. He was passionate about many things—his faith, his friends and foremost his family. He loved every minute spent watching his kids and later grandkids in their various activities.

He believed in community and for years Joe was an active member of the St Gabriel’s parish as a choir member and volunteer with the men’s club. He held the office of Grand Knight in the local Knights of Columbus, was President of the Kiwanis Club, and was a dedicated member of both the American Legion and the Rotary Club. He fought for the underdog, whether it was valiantly attempting to keep Rippowam High School from closing or passing out books to disadvantaged youth. He was recognized for his charitable work in 2013 by the Diocese of Bridgeport with the prestigious St Augustine Medal.

Sports played a major role in his busy life, whether he was playing tennis with his wife or golf with his buddies. Following his favorite teams, especially his beloved Yankees, was a source of great joy and occasional frustration. He also always made time to pinch hit as a volunteer judge for his sons’ diving meets.

He was an impassioned ballroom dancer who cut a mean rug with his wife Joan. He had a penchant for plaid pants and white bucks and loved to sing. One of his favorites was Sondheim’s “Send in the Clowns”.

Mr. Somma was the cherished husband of the late Joan Somma (2018) and is survived by daughters Virginia Somma Guido (Paul), Cynthia Lawn (Christopher) and sons Lawrence (Elizabeth) and Joseph Jr. (Kristen). “Grampy” leaves behind eight beautiful grandchildren: Christian, Avery, Bridget, Kendall, Clark, Ryan, Pilar and Jake and a sister Marilyn Seymour (Michael).

A viewing will be held from 8-930 am on Saturday December 28 at Leo P. Gallagher Funeral Home followed by a 10:30 Mass at St Aloysius in New Canaan. https://boxcast.tv/view/funeral-mass-joseph-john-somma-sr-sekhfzqdnadsm2cihrw4

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Mr. Somma’s name to The Knights of Columbus Council 2287. https://checkout.square.site/merchant/QJ8DZ7K80CGRN/checkout/XRLHAOKQX4OJJ2Z2Y7IQZZD