Mary Albarella Cusano, age 91, a former longtime resident of Derby and Milford CT currently residing in Naugatuck, passed away peacefully at home Feb. 21 surrounded by her loving family. It is the end of an era.
Mary was born March 14, 1928 in Derby to the late Michael & Josephine Trasacco Albarella. She was living with and cared for by her daughter Nancy Marganski and her husband Mark in Naugatuck , after Nancy brought her here from her home in Virginia.
Her family was all important to her – she was predeceased by her husband Joe Cusano Jr. and leaves behind her daughter Nancy and husband Mark of Naugatuck and her son Joseph Cusano III of Virginia. She was a wonderful Grandmother to grandsons Tony Mazza of West Haven and Joseph Cusano IV New Haven. She taught Joseph Italian when he was just a toddler; he understood her completely.
He also picked up his love of the written word from her. Mary treasured her great granddaughters Nicole “Nic” Mazza, Kaycee Clapp and Kristiana Amato and her great grandson Antonio Joseph Mazza. She was also survived by her niece Tracy Fray Wilkins (and husband Russ) who was like her daughter, and several other nieces & nephews.
She was passionate about antiques and for many years was an avid collector – always on the hunt with her gal friends for Antique treasures – especially dolls. She was quite a good artist herself. She was a voracious reader and loved a good crossword puzzle. She also loved flowering trees – at her home in Milford she had a Magnolia, Japanese Red Mable, Dogwood and Crabapples. Following her explicit wishes, there will be no public services.
The family would appreciate any loved one to say a prayer for her. She lived a good life – and leaves behind a family that will never forget her – we will miss her, but we are gratified she has been reunited with her husband Joe, Brother Frank Albarella, Sisters Rose Fray and Chubby Albarella and Mother Josephine Albarella in Heaven. Donations in her memory may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association, 8180 Greensboro Drive, Suite 400. McLean, VA 22102.
