Elizabeth J. Passerelle

The family of Elizabeth "Betty" Passerelle née DeGruttola is deeply saddened to announce her passing on October 17, 2026 surrounded by her family. 

Betty was born on November 20, 1932 in Stamford, the daughter of Theresa and Daniel DeGruttola. A month short of her 94th birthday, Betty touched many hearts along her way and will be profoundly missed. She was a longstanding parishioner of Sacred Heart Church and a proud member of the rosary society. "Ma" was never shy in expressing her passion for the Red Sox, her affection for Paris, or her absolute adoration of her family, of whom she was incredibly proud. It was a rare sight to see Ma without a smile on her face, especially when talking about her late husband Ernie. Despite their playful spats about the Red Sox and Yankees, Ernie and Elizabeth had an immense love and devotion to each other that started with a simple "who's that cute guy". 

Betty is survived by her children, Danielle Pimpinella (Mario) and Darlene Richichi (Dominick), her grandchildren, Elizabeth Pansino (Mario), Michele Pimpinella, Matthew Richichi (Bianca), Lindsey Richichi-Boulis (Scott), her great-grandchildren, Raffaella Pansino, Marcella Pansino, Cassio Richichi, and Nico Boulis, all her beloved nieces and nephews, and her dear friend Barbara Fidelibus.

Betty is predeceased by her husband Ernest "Ernie" Passerelle of sixty years, and her brother, Anthony "Sonny" DeGruttola.

A mass will be held on October 21, at 11:00 am at Sacred Heart Church, 37 Schuyler Avenue, Stamford, CT 06902. Burial will immediately follow at Queen of Peace, 124 Rock Rimmon Road, Stamford, CT 06903. There will be no calling hours.

Betty was a lover of animals and cherished all of her pets. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to PAWS (Pet Animal Welfare Society) at pawsct.org/donate.