Jeanette M. Church Obituary
Jeanette M. Church, beloved wife of the late Richard W. Church passed away peacefully on December 11, 2024 in Norwalk, CT. She was born in Brooklyn, NY on March 30, 1939, to the late Valentine and Pauline (Blazes) Mitchell who instilled in her the value of hard work. Jeanette dedicated her life to those around her.
For nearly four decades, she served as a devoted public school teacher in Norwalk. Her passion for education was evident not only through her commitment to teaching but also through the countless lives she touched. She believed deeply in the potential of every child and worked tirelessly to inspire them.
Jeanette's love extended beyond the classroom; it radiated within her family. She is survived by her three children: Cynthia Church Marrero (and husband Robert), Jeffrey W. Church (and partner Lisa), and David A. Church (and fiancée Jennifer); along with five adoring grandchildren: Sabrina Godeski (and husband Alex), Jennifer M. Rosso , Madalyn K. Lawton, James D. Rosso , and Zoey A. Church.
Linda P. Caddie (husband Ian) and Katherine V. Scalisi (husband Joseph) were sisters as well lifelong companions who shared laughter and memories that will forever echo in their hearts.
Outside of family life and teaching responsibilities, Jeanette found joy in simple pleasures—solving crossword puzzles became one of her favorite pastimes. An avid sports fan at heart—she passionately cheered for UCONN basketball teams while remaining loyal to the Mets throughout their ups-and-downs.
The family's lake house held special significance for Jeanette—a sanctuary filled with laughter during summer gatherings where stories were exchanged under starlit skies or afternoons spent with family and friends, barbecuing, swimming, boating, and playing cards. The tranquil waters of Gardner Lake were her refuge.
In recent years you could often find Jeanette enjoying herself at Mohegan Sun playing penny slot machines—a testament to both luck & leisure combined! A visitation will be held on Thursday January 9th from 6-8 pm at Magner Funeral Home located at 12 Mott Ave., Norwalk CT, followed by a funeral mass honoring this remarkable woman's legacy on Friday January 10th at St Thomas The Apostle Church on East Avenue in Norwalk starting promptly at ten o'clock AM before proceeding towards burial services taking place thereafter at nearby St Paul's Cemetery situated along East Avenue as well. All are welcome who wish to pay tribute.