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Annette D. Cella

Annette D. Cella, age 90, of Madison, beloved wife of the late Richard “Dick” Cella, passed away in the comfort of her home surrounded by her loving children on Sept. 30. Born in Wallingford, she was a daughter of the late Frederick and Mary (Catapano) DeVito.

Annette was a graduate of Lyman Hall High School. She worked at Union Trust as a bookkeeper and bank teller early in her career. Annette was the lead secretary at Dag Hammarskjold Middle School for 25 years, where she was highly respected by the administration and faculty.

Annette was a bright, gracious, elegant woman. She met the love of her life, “Dick,” at a family party, and they were engaged six months later. Annette and Dick were married for 68 wonderful years. Annette and Dick enjoyed many winters in Florida, where they welcomed family and friends. They celebrated several anniversaries in Bermuda. Other travels included trips to Italy, France, Spain, and Greece.

Annette enjoyed watching UConn women’s basketball, golfing, gardening, relaxing with a good book at the beach, attending her grandchildren’s events, and playing bridge with her weekly ladies’ group. Annette was a communicant of St. Margaret’s Church in Madison.

Annette is survived by her children, Richard Cella (Linda) of Orange, Maryellyn MacKinnell (Doak) of Guilford, and Patricia Burkett (Paul Sr.) of Wallingford. She leaves behind her six grandchildren to cherish her memory: Marina and Gabrielle Cella, Matthew and Meagan MacKinnel, and Paul and Caroline Burkett; her sisters, Theresa (Mrs. John Jr.) Porto, Rosemarie (Mrs. Richard) Preneta; her brother Andrew DeVito; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister Gloria A. Brook and her brothers-in-law, Paul and David Cella and Dick Preneta.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14, directly at the Church of the Resurrection, 115 Pond Hill Road, Wallingford. Burial will follow in St. John Cemetery in Wallingford. In lieu of flowers, a memorial gift may be made in Annette’s name to Yale Smilow Cancer Center. Arrangements are under the direction of The Wallingford Funeral Home. www.wallingfordfh.com.