Mary Guzzardi Gentile, 88, of North Haven, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Yale New Haven Hospital, St. Raphael’s campus surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of 65 years to the late Vincent A. Gentile. Born in Bridgeport on March 4, 1937, Mary was the daughter of the late Anthony and Teresa (Bosco) Guzzardi and was a longtime resident of Stratford and Naples, Fla.
Mary was a graduate of Southern Connecticut State University and the University of Bridgeport, where she received her undergraduate, Master’s, and Sixth Year degrees. She had a fulfilling career as an elementary school teacher at Stepney Elementary School in Monroe before her retirement. Over her tenure she shaped the lives of countless children, and developed many lifelong relationships with colleagues, and parents and was recognized as Teacher of the Year for the Town of Monroe.
Mary enjoyed playing golf with family and friends, cooking for the holidays and family dinners, and all the trips to Florida with her husband and children. She cherished the time she spent with family, especially with her grandchildren. She was so happy to have been able to teach all of them how to cook and to know that her recipes, traditions and signature dishes will be passed on for generations.
She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her. The family would like to thank the incredible care team on Verdi 3 West at St. Raphael’s for all the compassion and care given to Mary.
Mary is survived by her two children, Michael Gentile and his wife Marianne and Lisa Tunucci and her husband Peter; five grandchildren, Nicole Zacarelli, Steven Gentile and his wife Angela, Andrew Gentile, Gabi Tunucci and Mia Tunucci; and three cherished great-grandchildren, Orlagh, Anya and Henry.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated St. Mark Church in Stratford last month. Memorial contributions may be made to the National Niemann Pick Disease foundation by clicking here. To plant trees in Mary’s memory, visit the Sympathy Store.
This was originally published by Connecticut Post from Feb. 8 to Feb. 9, 2026.
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