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03/21/2024 08:14 PMFlorine “Flo” L. Melillo DePaola, 89, of North Haven, passed away unexpectedly on March 14, 2024, at St. Raphael’s Hospital surrounded by her loved ones. Florine was born in New Haven on Aug. 30, 1934, and was the daughter of the late Floyd Melillo and Carmela Fiorillo Melillo.
Florine was a homemaker who dedicated her life to her family. She was an amazing wife to her lifelong partner, Vincent. Florine was a nurturing mother who raised five loving children. She was her family’s anchor. Her home was open to everyone; it was a safe space for friends, family, neighbors, and even strangers. Florine hosted many memorable pool parties for her kids and unforgettable holidays filled with love, food, and presents.
In her earlier years, she enjoyed bowling, skating at Roller Haven, bocci by the beach, days at the cabanas, and attending Broadway shows with her friends. Vinny and Flo enjoyed dressing up to attend Saturday night dinner dances with lifelong friends. Over the years, Florine cherished spoiling her family by eating out, shopping, and taking “rides” to the casino.
Florine is survived by her son, Michael DePaola, and daughters, Therese DePaola Riordan (William) and Maria DePaola. She was the loving Nonni to Jessica (DePaola) Cohane (James), Vanessa and Erica Riordan; and great-Nonni to Kyla and James Cohane. She is also survived by her loving nieces and nephews, in-laws, and friends. She was predeceased by her husband of 67 years, Vincent DePaola; sons, Vincent and David DePaola; and sister, Lorraine Melillo Tercyak.
The visiting hours were on March 21 at The Havens Family, North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated in St. Elizabeth of the Trinity Parish at St. Therese Church, 555 Middletown Avenue, North Haven. Interment followed in All Saints Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101-9929 or SmileTrain.org. www.northhavenfuneral.com.