.Carolyn J. Celentano, 72, of Southbury, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at St. Mary's Hospital. She was the loving Wife of Scott Celentano, with whom she shared 37 beautiful years. Carolyn was born on August 17, 1951 in Newark, NJ to Harry Jones and Helen (Thomas) Jones. She graduated from Kearny High School in Kearny, NJ in 1969 and went on to earn a Master's degree in Education from Western Connecticut State University in 2007. Following college, Carolyn became an elementary school teacher; a career she dedicated over 50 years to, most recently, teaching first grade for the Plymouth Center School in Plymouth, CT. She loved being an educator and making a difference in children's lives, and was still teaching up until her passing. When she wasn't in the classroom, Carolyn enjoyed spending quality time with her family. She and her husband took many trips to Walt Disney World, their all-time favorite place (with and without the kids). She was an animal lover, whether wild or domestic, and would often provide food to the hungry neighborhood strays. She loved country music, was an avid Wordle player and was known for her amazing Thanksgiving stuffing and her marinara gravy. Above all else, Carolyn relished being a mom and a nana. Her family meant everything to her and she made the most of every second they were together. She will be remembered for her dedication, grace, selflessness, strength and generosity, and will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Left to cherish Carolyn's memory are her two children; Jennifer (Tim) Dinwoodie of Westborough, MA, and Chris (Melissa) Celentano of White Plains, NY, three grandchildren, Ellie, Abbey, and Emerson, two brothers, Larry Jones, and Charlie Jones, three nephews, and one grand-dog, Pearson. In addition to her parents, Carolyn was preceded in death by her husband Scott. Family and friends may visit Carpino Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Church, 910 Main Street South, Southbury, on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at 11:00 am, with burial to follow in Pine Hill Cemetery, Southbury. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial donations in Carolyn's name be made to Make-A-Wish America, 1702 E. Highland Ave., Suite 400, Phoenix, AZ 85016, or at wish.org/donate. The Carpino Funeral Home of Southbury has the honor of being entrusted with the arrangements. To leave a message of remembrance, please visit https://www.carpinofuneralhome.com.
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