Cheryl Ann (Raucci) Nuzzo

Cheryl Ann Raucci Nuzzo, 65, of West Haven, Connecticut, entered into eternal rest on June 19, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with neuroendocrine cancer. She passed peacefully at Saint Raphael's Hospital Hospice Care in New Haven, surrounded by the love of her family, including her devoted husband James who doted on her every need.

Born on January 10, 1961, at Saint Raphael's Hospital in New Haven, Cheryl was the beloved daughter of Marie Raucci and the late Thomas Raucci, Sr. A lifelong resident of the West Haven area, Cheryl graduated from West Haven High School and went on to become a highly regarded and sought-after floral designer. Her talent, creativity, and dedication touched countless lives through her work. Most recently, she was a valued member of the exceptional team at Forget Me Not Florists in North Haven.

Cheryl was a woman of deep faith and a lifelong member of Saint Louis Church in West Haven. She actively participated in parish life as a member of the Saint Louis Church Choir and Ladies Guild, sharing both her voice and her generous spirit with her church family.

Above all else, Cheryl cherished her family. She was the devoted wife of James Nuzzo III. June 30, 2026, would have marked their 25th wedding anniversary. She was a loving and proud mother to her beloved son, Nicholas Iamele, who was the center of her world.

Cheryl found joy in life's simple blessings. She loved nature and had a special place in her heart for animals. Whether caring for ducks, seagulls, a wandering mink, or her cherished cats, Smokie Joe and Ruby Jean, Cheryl never met a creature she wouldn't try to help. She enjoyed long walks at the beach, cooking and baking for those she loved, and spending treasured time with family and friends.

Those who knew Cheryl will remember her for her strength, resilience, kindness, and unwavering compassion. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. Cheryl was a friend to all and lived a life defined by love, generosity, and service to others.

In addition to her mother, Marie Raucci, Cheryl is survived by her husband, James Nuzzo III; her son, Nicholas Iamele; her siblings, Paul (Rhonda) Raucci, Thomas Raucci, Jr. (Lori Fink Massella), and Rose (Faye) Marzinotto; her sister-in-law, Lori (Nuzzo) Marra, and her husband, Tony; her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Eileen and James Nuzzo, Jr.; her beloved cats, Smokie Joe and Ruby Jean; and many cherished nieces, nephews, grandnieces, cousins, and dear friends.

She was predeceased by her father, Thomas Raucci, Sr. whom she has now joined in eternal peace.

In accordance with Cheryl's wishes, there will be no traditional funeral services. A Celebration of Life will be held in July 2026. Please check back for the date, time, and location as details become available.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Cheryl's memory to an animal shelter, neuroendocrine cancer research, or a homeless shelter, causes that reflected her lifelong compassion for both people and animals.

Though Cheryl's earthly journey has ended, the love she shared, the beauty she created, and the lives she touched will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."

Psalm 73:26

To share an online message with Cheryl's family, please visit our website www.westhavenfuneral.com.

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