Antonia J. Lacerenza

Our Loving Mother, Grandmother and Best Friend Antonia "Toni" J. (Russolillo) Lacerenza, age 85, passed away peacefully, on Thursday, June 5, 2025, in the comfort of her home. Born in Waterbury on February 9, 1940, Toni was the daughter of the late Charles and Genevieve (Daddona) Russolillo. She was a 1958 graduate of Waterbury Catholic High School and a 1961 graduate of Saint Mary's School of Nursing. Toni worked as a nurse for several years at East End Convalescent Home and spent most of her life raising her family. Toni enjoyed watching Antique Roadshow and Cash Cab and was a big fan of Andrea Bocelli and his music. She was devoted to her family and was incredibly proud of her grandchildren whom she cherished. Family pets, Thrasher, Zeus, Louie, and Mazze all brought a smile when she spent time with them or was shown their photos. Toni is survived by her children Stephen Lacerenza with whom she made her home, Toni Ann Leschuk and her husband Serge of Meriden, and Nicholas Lacerenza of Bristol; her beloved grandchildren Michael S. Leschuk of Meriden, Chase N. Lacerenza of Bristol, and Paige H. Lacerenza of Bristol. She also leaves her former husband Nicholas "Chuck" Lacerenza of Prospect; her godson Joseph Rainone of Watertown, and several nieces and nephews as well as many cousins and nursing school classmates to whom she was especially close. She was predeceased by her brother Carmine J. Russolillo and her sister Joann M. Calabro. Toni's family would like to thank their cousin Rosemary for her love and assistance, and Toni's visiting nurses for their care and compassion. Her family extends special thanks to Dr. Phil Mongelluzzo for his kindness and attention shown to their mom. The Lacerenza family is honoring their mother's wishes, and all services will be private. Maiorano Funeral Home has been entrusted with all arrangements. To sign the online guestbook or to leave online condolences for the family, please visit www.maioranofuneralhome.com.