Obituary published on Legacy.com by John F. Tierney Funeral Home, Inc. on Jan. 15, 2026.
Margo Cope Lazzerini, born March 28, 1941, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2025, after a short illness. She passed at home in Ashford, surrounded by her loving family. A lifelong musician and dedicated educator, Margo devoted her life to nurturing a love of music in countless individuals and communities.
Margo served as organist and choir director at numerous churches and synagogues throughout her career, where her musicianship, leadership, and deep respect for sacred music left a lasting impression. Her ability to bring people together through song was a hallmark of her work, and she was widely admired for both her musical excellence and her generosity of spirit.
For many years, Margo taught chorus and beginning instrumental music in the Coventry Public Schools, introducing generations of students to the joy and discipline of music education. Her patience, high standards, and encouragement helped young musicians find their confidence and their voices. She adored her students and continued to remember them throughout her life.
In addition to her work in schools and faith communities, Margo maintained a private teaching studio, offering piano lessons to both children and adults. Her teaching extended well beyond technique, instilling a deep appreciation for music and a belief that learning was a lifelong pursuit.
Music was also central to Margo's family life. She raised her children to share her passion and was a constant presence at auditions, rehearsals, and performances, always ready to provide the piano accompaniment and support them in their musical journeys.
Margo was predeceased by her parents, Jessica Giammatteo and William H. Cope, and by her sister, Carol J. Cope. She is survived by her four children and their spouses: Lauren (Lazzerini) Olson and her husband, Peter Olson; Kerry (Lazzerini) Foust and her husband, Steven Foust; Beth (Lazzerini) Pratt and her husband, Stuart Pratt; and Peter Lazzerini and his wife, Sherry (Czmyr). She is also survived by ten beloved grandchildren, and one grandson-in-law, each of whom held a special place in her heart.
Margo Lazzerini will be remembered as a gifted musician, devoted teacher, and steadfast advocate for the power of music to enrich lives. Her legacy lives on in the many students, congregations, and family members whose lives were shaped by her talent, dedication, and love. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. All our lives are better for having known her.
A funeral service will be held on Sunday, January 25th, 2026, at Wapping Community Church, 1790 Sullivan Avenue in South Windsor at 3:00 p.m. A visitation will be held prior beginning at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to CT Humane Society,
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or a
charity of your choice.
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