Gail S. Marchitto (Breff) passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family on Thursday, June 19th, 2025 at the age of 87. She was born on November 30th, 1937.
Gail was born in Manhattan, New York to Joseph Breff and Doris Lubelle and grew up in Brooklyn where she lived until she moved to Connecticut for college in 1955. Upon graduating from the University of Bridgeport, she became an elementary teacher for the Milford, Shelton and Waterbury School Systems over the course of 38 years. While she dedicated much of her life and career to teaching, Gail (more affectionately known by her family as Grammie) lived her retirement to the fullest, traveling the world, playing mahjong, and spending her time with the people she loved most - her family.
It was rare for someone to meet Gail for the first time and not leave with a lasting impression. She was known for her quick wit and unparalleled sense of humor, often leaving you laughing long after the conversation ended. Gail was unapologetically herself-confident in her values and steadfast in her opinions. She had a gift for storytelling, with a knack for delivering just the right quote at just the right time. Her life stories were always told with flair and, of course, humor.
A lifelong reader, Gail found joy in the pages of a book - in her later years, usually something she found through a Facebook group recommendation that she picked up from her local library. She had a sharp mind and remained active, playing her beloved game of mahjong up to five times per week with a group of good friends and always some nosh. Gail was an avid knitter, creating treasured pieces for the people she loved.
Gail is survived by her three granddaughters, Jessica, Jordan and her two children Maia & Xander, and Danielle and her husband Elliot deBruyn. She is also survived by her daughter-in law, Cindy Alfredo, who she loved and cared for as one of her own. They spoke every single day until her death. Gail is preceded in death by her two sons, Richard Alfredo and Curt Alfredo who she loved dearly.
Her legacy is one of being yourself unapologetically, loving your family fiercely, and remembering that it's never a bad time to crack a joke.
Gail spent the majority of her adult life making charitable donations to various organizations. In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to donate to your
charity of choice. Prospect Memorial/ The Palmerie Family is honored to be entrusted with Gail's care and invites you to share your condolences on her tribute wall on this website.
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Published by WFSB on Jun. 27, 2025.