Obituary of Deborah D. Broccoli

Deborah Damiano Broccoli, age 74, of Shelton, CT and Estero, FL, beloved wife of Ronald Broccoli, passed away peacefully on Wednesday June 5, 2024 with her loving family at her side. Debbi fought a courageous battle against pancreatic cancer and remained strong, optimistic and determined throughout. Born in Bridgeport on May 24, 1950, she was the daughter of the late Philip and Adeline Manzo Damiano.

Debbi was an outstanding educator in the Bridgeport Public Schools for 37 years. She began her career as an elementary teacher, became a reading consultant, Assistant Principal, Principal and the Director of Literacy. Throughout her career, she was truly dedicated to her students and to the education of all children, especially those most in need. She retired from Bridgeport and immediately became Interim Assistant Superintendent for Hamden Schools and then moved on to be a senior consultant for the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents where she shared her literacy knowledge and expertise throughout Connecticut. Debbi was also a member and former president of the Greater Bridgeport Retired Teachers Association. Her knowledge, commitment and hard work were appreciated by all who worked with her.

Debbi enjoyed cooking her traditional Italian cuisine for her family and friends. Her food was so loved and appreciated by all. In her spare time, she enjoyed quilting and many of her friends and family treasure the beautiful gifts she so generously gave.

Above all else, Debbi was a dedicated and loving wife, mother and grandmother. She deeply enjoyed the times when her family could be together, especially with her beloved grandchildren. Her smile would light up the room when they were by her side. She cared deeply for her family, and provided the very best for them, always putting her needs last. The unconditional love she gave to each of them and the values she so beautifully instilled in them will forever live in their hearts. Debbi will truly be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

In addition to Ron, her beloved husband of 45 years, Debbi is survived by her three loving children, Gina Kalander (John), Marisa Broccoli Van Growski (Dave) and Damian R. Broccoli (Erin), her seven cherished and adored grandchildren, Michael, Marianna, Matteo, Luca, Cristiano, Lorenzo and Adeline, as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends. She was predeceased by her sister, Patricia Letizia Napolitano.

To honor Debbi's dedication to literacy, we invite you to bring a children's book of your choice to the memorial service. These books will be gifted to Bridgeport Public Schools in memory of Debbi, who inspired a passion for reading and learning in the community.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, June 15, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. in St. Jude Church, 707 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe. Interment will follow in St. Michael's Cemetery, Stratford. At Debbi's request, there will be no calling hours. Arrangements entrusted to the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Rd., Trumbull. For online condolences, please visit us at www.abriola.com.