JoAnn Muscillo

JoAnn Muscillo, formerly JoAnn Fidanza, age 91, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, November 2, 2025 in the VITAS Unit at Saint Mary's Hospital.

Born in Waterbury on January 21, 1934, JoAnn was the daughter of the late Dominic and Antoinette (Tuscillo) Muscillo. She was a graduate of Waterbury Catholic High School and attended Mattatuck College and Post College where she studied business and real estate. She began her career as an office manager for her family's business, Fidanza Brothers Construction Company, for over 25 years. After her retirement from the construction industry, JoAnn worked for the Waterbury Health Department, the Waterbury Fire Department, the Waterbury Development Agency, and the CT Marshall's Office.

Devout in her faith, JoAnn was a longtime parishioner of the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Kind and generous, JoAnn put others needs above her own, and she devoted countless hours to volunteering with organizations such as Literacy Volunteers, the Waterbury Hospital Learning Program, the Commission on Aging, and as a foster grandparent at the Waterbury Senior Center.

Fiercely independent, JoAnn built a career at a time when few women did, ensuring her own sense of freedom and purpose. She loved reading, crafting, and playing bingo, and her adventurous spirit took her around the world - and often to the casino for a bit of fun. More than anything, she treasured her family and found her greatest joy in watching her children and granddaughter grow.

JoAnn is survived by her daughters Jo Ann Crockett and her husband Dave of Wolcott and Julie Gryga and her husband Phil of Waterbury; and her granddaughter Aimee-Jo Cyr and her boyfriend Mike of Waterbury. She also leaves several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was predeceased by her brother Savino J. Muscillo, her sister Vita M. Fidanza, and her former husband, Julius Caesar Fidanza, with whom she shared a lasting friendship until his passing.

JoAnn's funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 10:00am at The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, 74 West Main St., Waterbury. Family and friends are asked to meet directly at the church. Burial will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. Maiorano Funeral Home has been entrusted with all arrangements. Memorial contributions in JoAnn's name may be made to: The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, 74 West Main St., Waterbury, CT 06702. To sign the online guestbook or to leave online condolences for the family, please visit www.maioranofuneralhome.com.