Celia Lombardi DePalma, 97, of Hamden, wife of the late Albert S. DePalma, passed away January 29, 2022. She was born in West Haven May 19, 1924, a daughter of the late Anthony Lombardi and Anna DellaCioppa Lombardi, and resided in Hamden for most of her life. Celia proudly served as a Sergeant after enlisting in the US Air Force during WWII.
She enjoyed playing cards with family and in many groups and clubs, and was quite adept at bridge and pinochle. She loved watching sports her entire life, everything from tennis to football, and was an avid New York Yankee fan. Mostly she enjoyed being with her family, whether she was preparing a meal or her special dish, eggplant, heading to the beach, or traveling from California to Florida to Italy to be with the ones she loved. She was well-read and was always engaging with her friends and family, who were inspired by her natural curiosity.
Loving mother of David (Char) DePalma of Hamden, John (Cath) DePalma of Seattle, WA, JoAnn (Adam) Burrows of Old Lyme, and Paul (Tess) DePalma of Orlando, FL. She is also survived by 8 amazing grandchildren; Claire, Adam A., Joseph, Jenna, Heather, Meredith, Liz, and Nick, and 4 great-granddaughters. Celia was predeceased by 4 sisters and 3 brothers. Her final prayer was "May God Bless my wonderful family and God Bless America."
Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial in Divine Mercy-St. Rita Parish, Whitney Ave., Hamden on Monday, February 7th at 10:00 a.m. To view a recording of the Mass, please click here: Celia DePalma Funeral Mass . Password to view is mR&u.2dv. Entombment with Military Honors in All Saints Mausoleum. If you wish to watch the Military Honors as they were presented at the cemetery, a second recording is available here: Celia DePalma Cemetery Rites . Password to view is  s.CbM6Z6. Memorial contributions may be sent to VNA Community Healthcare and Hospice by donating online at www.connecticuthomecare.org .