Norma Jean Rapini, 90, of Branford, Connecticut died peacefully on January 11, 2024. She was born on July 22, 1933, in Princeton, West Virginia, the daughter of the late William (Bill) and Ursie Paschal. Norma and her family moved to Burlington, North Carolina, where she was raised with the help of her loving aunts, Maude Allen and Mildred (Minnie) Driver.
Norma came up north and met her husband of 25 years, Thomas Rapini (Deceased 1985). They made a life for themselves in New Haven, then Hamden, Connecticut, where Norma and Tom raised their three sons, Michael, Dominic, and Allen Rapini. Norma was known for her gardening, love of the outdoors, and great kitchen talent, cooking Italian and Southern delicacies to the delight of her family and friends.
Most importantly, Norma was an avid reader of classic and contemporary novels, taking particular delight in the works of Emily Bronte and Jane Austen.
When not making a home for her family, Norma worked for Pratt & Whitney before becoming a long-term employee of Yale University, working in telecommunication and serving Yale students before retiring in 1993. Norma lived to enjoy her children, grandchildren, and friends during retirement. Travel was a special interest, highlighted by Norma's trip to London, England, where she reveled in the rich English history and everything to do with the Queen and Royal family.
Mourning the loss of Norma are her sons and their families; Michael Rapini and Katherine Christopher, Dominic Rapini and Susan Rapini (Dandrow), and Allen Rapini and Patty Rapini (Rognlie). Norma was a loving grandmother to Michael and Micah Rapini, Hunter and Blake Rapini (great-grandsons), Ava Rapini, Katlyn, Thomas, and Annie Rapini, Blake Gatison, Amanda Augustine, and Lela Augustine, and Jack and Jenni Rapini. Throughout her life, Norma loved and cared for her family. She was predeceased by her brother Billy Paschal, sister Faye Paschal (Radzwilka), and her brothers Jack and Jimmy Harry. Norma's legacy also includes numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins who loved her dearly.
Friends are invited to visit with Norma's family at Beecher & Bennett Funeral Home, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden on Thursday, January 25th from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Funeral Service will begin at 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 26th in the funeral home, followed by burial in Centerville Cemetery.