Rita P. (Petrillo) DiNello

Rita P. DiNello, 92, of West Haven, died on April 18, 2022, at The Connecticut Hospice.  Born in New Haven on January 22, 1930, a daughter of the late John A. and Christine (Candela) Petrillo.  Rita is survived by her loving children, James J. Dinello Jr., John A. DiNello, and Gabrielle R. DiNello; as well as sister, Grace DiNello.  She is additionally preceded in death by her beloved husband of over sixty years, James J. DiNello Sr.; son, Gary M. DiNello; and brother, Joseph Petrillo.

Rita’s priority in life was that of her devotion to family.  Prior to marrying her great love in 1952, she served as an account representative for Blue Cross Insurance of New Haven; however, the subsequent years were dedicated to homemaking.  Her skill of baking and cooking were rivaled by many, particularly her pizza dough and sauce composition (of which remained a well-kept secret).  A talented seamstress, Rita designed and crafted the various window treatments for her home, as well as years' worth of apparel for her children.  She was an avid New York Jets fan (with specific admiration for Joe Namath), enjoyed yearly excursions to Las Vegas or Foxwoods Resort Casino, and embarked on a thirty-year favored pastime of weekly dances with her husband and children.  A creative spirit, an active listener, a nurturing soul, a source of joy- Rita was all, and shall forever be cherished by those who knew her. 

Calling hours will take place on Thursday, April 21st, from four to seven o’clock, in the funeral parlor.  On Friday, a procession will depart the funeral home at 9:30am for a ten o’clock Mass of Christian Burial, to be celebrated in St. Aedan Parish Church, 112 Fountain Street, New Haven.  Interment will immediately follow in Oak Grove Cemetery.  

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