Sofio J. "Fuzzy" Failla

Sofio "Fuzzy" J. Failla, 96, of Newington, formerly of New Britain, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 11, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of the late Tina S. (Morelli) Failla for 53 years. Born and raised in New Britain, son of the late Salvatore and Frances (Pizzutto) Failla, he was a Newington resident for 48 years. A loving and devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he leaves his three children, Jane Failla, of Newington, Lynn Higgins and John Failla and his wife, Kathleen, all of Unionville; his four grandchildren, Stephanie Bealing and her husband Clive, Tiffany McDaniel and her husband Josh, Ryan Failla and his wife Laura, and Amanda Welch and her husband Nicholas and his six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly and many kind and loving friends, who were like family to him. Fuzzy was predeceased by his sisters, Bessy Suess and Virginia Gilberto; and his brothers, Joseph, Anthony, and James Failla.
Fuzzy proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II and later became the co-owner of Failla Tool Company and the sole proprietor of Eagle Tool Company, both in New Britain. Fuzzy was a semi-pro football player and an avid champion racquetball player who won many local, regional, and national championships. He was a familiar face around the New Britain YMCA and will be dearly missed by his racquetball buddies. When not on the court, Fuzzy could often be found fishing with his brother-in-law and best friend, the late Joseph Rao, or golfing with family and friends. He always had a smile on his face when he was with his family, whether at his grandchildren's sporting events or the annual Christmas Eve party. Fuzzy will be remembered for his love of life, optimistic attitude, and willingness to help others without hesitation.
His family would like to acknowledge the stellar and outstanding support of Don Davis and the Newington Veterans Administration. The Administration was loyal and steadfast in support of Fuzzy for the duration of his illness until his passing.
Additionally, the family would like to extend sincerest gratitude to the CNAs of his nursing home, Ursula, Leudy, and Anna, who tended to him with the utmost of kindness, care and above all, compassion.
Relatives and friends are invited to call on Saturday, August 19th from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Duksa Family Funeral Homes at Newington Memorial, 20 Bonair Ave., Newington followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 a.m. at the Church of the Holy Spirit, 183 Church St., Newington. He will be laid to rest with military honors following the mass in St. Mary Cemetery, New Britain. Memorial donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans at www.dav.org or to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org. To share a memory with his family, please visit us at www.duksa.net.
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