Thelma E. (de Benedictis) Barnett

Thelma E. Barnett, lovingly known as Teddy, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2021 due to a sudden illness at the age of 93. A resident of Orange, CT, formerly of Lynnbrook & North Bellmore, Long Island, she was the beloved wife of the late Charles Barnett. Born in Union, New Jersey, she was the daughter of Julius and Elsie de Benedictis. She is survived by her daughter Beth, son-in law, Bruce Berthel, grandchildren Brooke L. Berthel & Bruce C. Berthel, niece Debbie de Benedictis Hill, brother Richard de Benedictis and his children, Dean, Brian, Lara & Brent. In addition to her husband, Teddy was predeceased by her daughter Ava Lynn Barnett and her sister Henrietta.

Teddy was most proud of her Italian heritage. She was always saying, “Who wouldn't want to be Italian?!”. Her beauty transcended time, her green eyes always held your attention with a mischievous twinkle and her smile was contagious. She was an avid NY Met’s fan, holding season tickets when living in NY. She was a NY state bowling double champion and continued to bowl with her daughter until she was 80.  Teddy was a staple of both Bridgeport and Milford Jai Alai, and she would sit in the box seats inviting other fans to join her and was well known to many players. Once the Fronton closed, she made her way to Foxwoods & Mohegan Sun. She was a regular at the casinos, with “Sizzlin’ Seven's” being her slot machine of choice. Teddy never met a one armed bandit that she didn't like.

She was best friends with her daughter Beth and her grandchildren were everything to her. Whenever she saw Brooke or Bruce, her eyes would light up, she cherished every minute spent with them. She most enjoyed being with her family, especially on “Macaroni Sundays”. There was no excuse for not coming and there were always extra plates available for her grandchildren's friends. Macaroni was always followed by a competitive game of trivia or dominos.

There will be a Celebration of Life Memorial Service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Teddy’s name should be made to the CT Humane Society.