Theresa “Terry” (Benedetto) Chiappetta, age 80, of Durham passed away peacefully on Monday, December 25th, 2023 with family and friends by her side.  Born in Norwalk, CT and raised in Darien, CT she treasured her childhood growing up on the family farm. Terry was the daughter of the late Anthony “Ben” Benedetto and Mary (Cerulli) Benedetto. She was predeceased by her twin sister Marie Grace. Terry graduated from Darien High School in 1961.  Terry worked for 26 years as a secretary for the State of Connecticut Consumer Affairs Division Insurance Department, and retired in 2019.

Terry is survived by son Gene Chiappetta and wife Amanda of Middlefield; son Joseph Chiappetta and wife Jeanine of North Haven, CT and daughter Marie Truss and her husband Scott of Cromwell.  Terry was the beloved grandmother to Nate, Bennett, Dante, Landon, Ava, Charlie and Oliver.  Terry is also survived by her brother Louis Benedetto, and wife Annette of Norwalk, CT, and brother Anthony Benedetto, and wife of Sandy of Darien, CT. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, whom she loved deeply.

Terry was a friend to all.  While she cherished many friendships, her friendships Arlene and Tom Palmieri and Bill and Elaine Bodge, and their respective families, were held most dear to her heart.  Terry was always quick with a smile and a hug.  One of Terry’s favorite things was spending time with her family and friends. She especially loved the holidays, because it meant big get togethers, plenty of food, great conversation and stories. Terry was a terrific cook. For many years, Terry served as the the Superintendent of Souvenirs for the Durham Fair. She loved animals, baking. She enjoyed playing bingo and trips to the casino.

Relatives and friends may join the family for visiting hours on Wednesday, January 3rd from 10:00 am – 11:30 am at The Havens Family North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue, North Haven.  A Funeral Mass will also be celebrated on Wednesday, January 3rd at 12:00 pm at St. Therese Church, 555 Middletown Avenue, North Haven. Interment will be at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Terry’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association, 200 Executive Blvd, Suite 4B, Southington, CT 06489, Cat Tales, Inc., P.O. Box 901, Middletown, CT 06489 or a charity of your choice.