Obituary: Joan Evelyn Novella, 82, formerly of Hamden

HAMDEN, CT - (From Peter H. Torello & Son Funeral Home) Joan Evelyn Novella, 82, entered into eternal life on May 10, 2021 in West Palm Beach, FL.

A lifelong resident of Hamden, Joan was born on April 1, 1939 to John and Frances (Russo) Raccio, growing up in the Highwood/Newhallville sections of Hamden.

After attending Newhall Street grammar school and Hamden High School (Class of 1957), Joan attended and graduated from the New Haven College Business School. Joan was no stranger to hard work. While still in high school, she got her first job at Woolworth’s and also worked for her father’s three companies.

Upon graduation from business school, she began her employment with The Southern New England Telephone Company, enjoying many promotions in its corporate offices. After raising her children, Joan worked in the main office at Hamden High School, endearing herself to countless students by offering them guidance, encouragement and support over the years.

More than anything, Joan loved her family, friends and people in general. Toward the end of her life she repeatedly said to, “Tell everyone that I love them.”

Joan was predeceased by her beloved husband, Michael S. Novella, Sr. who she met in 1960 on Okinawa Beach in West Haven and was married for 54 years. She was a devoted mother to her three children, Michael S. Novella, Jr. of North Branford (WHPD) and his wife Danielle, Jodi Anne Novella of Palm Beach Garden, Florida (PBCPD), and Lawrence A. Novella of West Palm Beach, Florida.

She adored her three grandchildren, Michael S. Novella III, Tehya A. Novella and Joseph Rapuano. Joan is also survived by her sister, Linda A. Raccio of Florida and was predeceased by her three siblings, Pasquale Raccio, Frances Magliochetti, John A. Raccio, Jr, and her Brother-in-law Butch Novella. Joan is also survived by her sister-in-law’s Rosalie DePalma, Dolores Raccio and many beloved cousins.

Joan was young at heart, open minded, full of life and always ready for a party, and as a result she was “Azia” to her numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and Roxie.

Joan valued her lifelong friendships and loved spending time with her Hamden High School Class of 1957 classmates in the yearly reunions and get togethers. Joan also loved her grand-dogs and had great respect and admiration for First Responders, Police Dogs and the Military.

Joan was possessed of a strong and amazing spirit and will be deeply missed by all who loved her.

No doubt, she has located the perfect, peaceful spot on a beach in Heaven, soaking up the sunshine that she always spread to others. Accordingly, in lieu of flowers the family request that donations be made to the Justice Program, 4290 Northlake Blvd, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410, (561) 622-6300, which supports and pays for the expenses of active and retired police and service dogs.

Funeral servicEs will be held TUESDAY at 9:15 A.M. from the Peter H. Torello & Son F.H., 1022 Dixwell Ave. Hamden, and at 10 A.M. in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel church. Burial will follow in St. Mary's cemetery.

Friends may call Monday from from 4 - 7 P.M.