Irene S. Simonelli

Irene Settle Simonelli, aged 91, of Danbury, passed away at her home on March 16, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 24, 1933 in Danbury, she was the daughter of Robert and Lillian (Barker) Settle.

Irene graduated from Danbury High School in 1951 and began her career at The Settle-Holbrook Shoe Store. She married her high school sweetheart Bob in 1957, and they were married for 55 years. After raising her children, she dedicated 27 years to the City of Danbury, retiring in 1997 as the Assistant Tax Assessor.

With a heart big enough for everyone, Irene welcomed all into her home with open arms, treating friends like family. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering generosity created a place of love and belonging for all who entered.

She was an active member of St. James’ Episcopal Church in Danbury, serving on the Vestry and various committees. She was also a devoted member of the Echo Rebekah Lodge #30 for 40 years, a Girl Scout Troop Leader and volunteered with the Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, and The Top Hats Volunteers.

Irene is survived by her children: Susan Johnson and her husband,Carl; Ed Simonelli and his wife, Sandi; Linda Spaziani; and Jill Simonelli. She was a proud grandmother to Michael (Traci) Simonelli, James (Danielle) Simonelli, Amanda Johnson, Catherine (Corey) Malan, and Anthony (Marissa) Zabriskie Spaziani, and great-grandmother to Andrew, RJ, Frankie, and Addie. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Bob; her sister, Ruth Janssen; her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Dr. Joseph Simonelli and Flora Fiandra; and her son-in-law, Domenic Spaziani.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00am at St. James’ Episcopal Church in Danbury, officiated by The Rev. Gina Gore, Priest-in-Charge. Burial will follow at St. Peter Cemetery in Danbury.

Friends may call on Thursday, March 20, 2025, from 4:00pm - 7:00pm at Green Funeral Home, 57 Main St., Danbury.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Irene’s memory may be made to St. James’ Episcopal Church, 25 West St., Danbury, CT 06810 or to The Robert F. Simonelli Scholarship Fund, c/o Danbury High School, 43 Clapboard Ridge Rd., Danbury, CT 06811, or a charity of one’s choice.