Diane Levi-Verderame

Diane Levi-Verderame passed away suddenly at her home in Branford on November 27, 2025. Diane, or "Di" as she was lovingly referred to by friends and loved ones, was the proud and loving mother to her three children, Victoria, Tommy, and Natalia Verderame; and their significant others and spouses, Vinnie Rosarbo, Jamesha Verderame, and Paul Matute. She was born on July 3, 1960, to Hal Levi and the late Audrey Cavanaugh Levi. From an early age, her birthday became the symbol of her personality-she was a firework and the life of the party!

Oftentimes, Diane could be found at the center of the dance floor, pulling all sorts of things out of her bag of tricks-from whistles and boas to tambourines and hats. Wherever she went, a party was sure to follow, and she loved nothing more than bringing a laugh and a smile to her friends and loved ones, especially her three children.

Upon graduation from Branford High School in 1978, she had a successful career in retail, including, for a short period of time, owning her own store on West Main Street in Branford, Lady Di, a lingerie and intimates store, where she eventually began to sell select wedding gowns. It was then she realized her true passion, which led to a 20-year career in the wedding and formal wear business, including consulting at Ambrody's and Harold's and managing David's Bridal. From there, she shifted into event planning before her eventual retirement.

In retirement, Diane fully devoted herself to the care-taking of her beloved father. They were a dynamic duo, and she took special pride in providing Mr. Hal (her nickname for him) with many fun days and evenings, including planning special events on their back deck, always bringing in company and providing everyone who came with not just good food, but with a good laugh and a memory they would never forget.

In addition to her Father, her three children, and their partners, she is survived by her sister, Debra Kay Levi (Jay Medlyn), and her Uncle Edward (Rosalie) Cavanaugh. She also leaves behind a special sister-friend, Dotty Owens, and many other friends and cousins who will miss her laugh and sense of humor. She was pre-deceased by her former husband and the father of her children, Thomas (Mix) Verderame III.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Diane's family on Tuesday December 2nd from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at East Haven Memorial Funeral Home, 425 Main Street. A church service for Diane will be held at Christ & The Epiphany Church, 39 Park Place, East Haven at 11:00AM on Wednesday December 3rd .