Maria Calafiore

Maria Calafiore, 93, of Bristol, formerly of New Britain, Connecticut, died peacefully October 6, 2023, surrounded by her family and friends. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Nunzio Calafiore. Born on June 30th 1930 in Solarino, Sicily, she was the youngest of three children. She was the daughter of the late Paolo and Santa (Miano) Calafiore.

Maria moved to the United States in 1947. She was employed at Stanley Works in New Britain, Connecticut for nearly four decades, before retiring. She was an active and committed parishioner of Saint Ann’s Church. She was the force behind bringing over more family from Italy, and settling the newly arrived members into a brand-new country and life. Her endless love, generosity and care helped lead the way to success and happiness for so many.

Maria was predeceased by her brother, Salvatore Calafiore and sister, Carmelina Bordonaro. She is survived by her sons, Patrick Calafiore and wife Paula of Bristol, Paul Calafiore and wife Shirley of Berlin, Robert Calafiore and partner Julian Bazalar of West Hartford; her daughter, Nancy Barbagallo and husband David of Berlin; seven grandchildren, Jennifer Boutot, James, Ashley, and Carley Calafiore, Nina, Ava, and Olivia Barbagallo; two great grandchildren, Carissa and Emilyn Boutot; and countless incredible, loving nieces and nephews, both here and in Italy. She adored them all. Special thanks to her caregiver of seven years, Brynn Cox, who brought her not only care, but laughter and a unique friendship.

She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, providing unconditional love to all. She expressed so much of that through her kitchen and the endless cooking, her mastery of crochet and all the blankets she made that will keep us warm, and her effortless desire to always help. Though she will forever be missed, her legacy of extending open arms and open home will continue through all of us. A remarkable woman. We can only hope to be as graceful, kind, giving, and full of genuine love as she was every day.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday at 9:15 AM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home, 411 So. Main St. New Britain, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:15 AM at St. Ann Church; 101 North St., New Britain.  Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery.  Calling hours are Wednesday from 4-7 PM at the funeral home.