Rose Giallombardo

Rose Giallombardo November 12, 1925 - July 17, 2010 Groton - Rose Giallombardo, 84, of Groton, died July 17, 2010 at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital in New London. Born in Willimantic on November 12, 1925, she was the daughter of the late Rosario and Mary (Lidestri) Giallombardo. Rose earned a PhD in Sociology from North Western University and went on to do research in juvenile delinquency, and was the first person to conduct studies of women in prison. She published numerous books on both subjects. She was an intelligent and independent woman who never allowed societal constraints to dictate or limit her actions or decisions. She was fearless in the face of gender discrimination in a time when that was unusual, making her a role model for all who knew her. She will be greatly missed. Surviving is her brother Joseph Giallombardo of Colorodo, her sister Sarina Tillis of Illinois, and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by two brothers, Angelo and Harry Giallombardo. A Memorial Mass will take place on Wednesday, August 4, 2010, at the Cathedral of St. Patrick, at 1 p.m. Interment to follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations are asked to be made in her memory to St. Patrick Cathedral, 213 Broadway, Norwich, CT. 06360. Arrangements by Labenski Funeral Home.