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Rachel DeRusso DeGennaro

Rachel DeRusso DeGennaro, 104, widow of John DeGennaro and youngest child of Francisco and Luisa Ruggiero, born Sept. 6, 1919, in New Haven, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2024, at the Grimes Center in New Haven. She was predeceased by her first husband, James DeRusso, and their son, John (Jay) DeRusso. She was also predeceased by six siblings: Tess Riccitelli, Emily DiNicola, Julia Vanacore, Mary Perrelli, Thomas Ruggiero, and Joseph Ruggiero. Survivors include daughter Paula and son-in-law Paul Baran, along with five grandchildren: Tracy Morawa, James DeRusso, Jennifer Butler, Marisa Corso, and Michael DeRusso; nine great-grandchildren; and special friend Lucille Loricco. It should be noted that during her days working as a travel agent for New Haven Travel, Rachel led numerous groups to many exotic places around the world. She also spent countless hours fundraising for the Auxiliary of the Hospital of St. Raphael.

Her family would like to thank the staff at the Grimes Center for the excellent care shown to Rachel, especially Hermine and Howa, during her stay there, particularly during the days of her final illness.

There are no calling hours. Friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial was on March 6 in St. John Bosco Parish at St. Mary Church, 731 Main Street, Branford. Burial followed in All Saints Cemetery, North Haven. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Grimes Center, 1354 Chapel Street, New Haven, in Rachel’s name. For directions and online memorial see www.wsclancy.com