Patricia “Patty” Bracnaro Banfe, age 82, of Shelton, entered into her eternal rest on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at Griffin Hospital in Derby. She is the cherished wife of 59 years of William Banfe, beloved mother of Jennifer and Jayne Banfe, and sister of Marlene Gydus. Patty was born in Derby on April 18, 1943, to Frank “Broc” and Genevieve (Westerlund) Bracnaro, and was a lifelong resident of Shelton.
She graduated from Shelton High School in 1961 and later served on all the class reunion committees. She graduated from SCSC in 1965, where she served as class vice-president. Patty taught at Long Hill School from 1965 to 1971, when she returned to earn her MS in Guidance Counseling. In 1977 Patty returned to education as a Parent Coordinator and instructional tutor until her retirement in 2007.
Patty served as President of the Gaelettes Sports Club at SHS and served for 16 years on the Shelton School Readiness Council as Vice Chair. She was a member of the Early Childhood Task Force and the Valley Directors Network. She was a Brownie Leader, a cheering advisor for both Shelton Biddy League and Pop Warner, and an active PTA member at Sunnyside, Long Hill, and Shelton Intermediate School.
Patty loved watching sports and was a lifelong fan of the NY Yankees and supporter of UConn Basketball. She enjoyed reading and doing crossword puzzles, and, more than anything, loved being with her family.
Patty is also the aunt of Ron (Liz) Gydus and Holly (Michael) Rogers, great aunt of Brock and Chase Gydus, and Audrey, Claire, and Lila Rogers. She is also survived by her sister-in-law June Banfi and many cousins. She was predeceased by her brother-in-law Richard Gydus.
Friends may greet the family at the Riverview Funeral Home, 390 River Road, on Monday from 3 to 7 PM. On Tuesday friends are invited to attend her Mass of Christian Burial at 10 AM directly at St. Joseph Church, 50 Fairmont Place, Shelton. Burial will immediately follow at Riverside Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions are requested to the Banfe Family Scholarship Fund.