Therese Rose "Terry" Carlington

Therese (Terry) Rose Savering Carlington, age 69, of West Haven, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025, at Yale New Haven Hospital, surrounded by her family. Born in Derby on October 6, 1956, she was the daughter of the late William Savering and Frances Cushner Coss. She was the beloved wife of the late Gary Carlington with whom she shared 21 years of marriage.
Terry was raised in Ansonia, Connecticut, and attended Assumption School before graduating from Ansonia High School. She went on to build a long and meaningful career as a Certified Nurse's Aide at the Greenery of Howell, Michigan, where she provided compassionate care to individuals with brain and spinal cord injuries, cognitive disorders, and complex rehabilitation needs. She served in this role for nearly 20 years, retiring in 2008. During her tenure, Terry was elected president of her union, proudly representing her colleagues in their local AFL-CIO chapter.
In her earlier years, Terry enjoyed drawing and sewing before developing a love of the outdoors, especially fishing. She valued celebrating holidays with family and friends, with St. Patrick's Day holding special meaning as a tribute to her Irish roots. A skilled cook, she took pride in learning new recipes and preparing family favorites. She was also an avid reader and keen trivia enthusiast, pursuing her interests with curiosity and spirit. Throughout her life, she lived in Louisiana and Michigan before returning to Connecticut in 2020 to reside with her sister, niece, and nephew.
Terry is survived by her devoted sister, Deirdre H. Gruber, and her cherished nephew and niece, Killian and Gaylen Gruber, all of West Haven. She also leaves behind her close friend Kevin Buchanan of East Haven and her adored Yorkshire Terrier, Willie. In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her stepfather, John F. Coss.
She will be remembered with love for her strength and unwavering loyalty to those she cared for.
A Graveside funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 11:00 AM, in Mount St. Peter Cemetery, 219 New Haven Avenue, Derby. The Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Avenue, Ansonia, is in care of arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com