Irene DiSaia

Waterford — Irene Rita (Valade) DiSaia, 96, of Waterford passed away on Friday, Feb. 23, 2018.

Born on Sept. 18, 1921, to Norman and Selena Valade, in Bridgewater, Mass., Irene became known to all as “Gigi,” a nickname given to her by her cherished grandchildren.

After her husband’s passing in 1993, Gigi moved in with her family and would become an invaluable source of guidance and help. During this time, she took up crocheting as a way to remain active and busy; little did anyone know that her blankets would bring an endless supply of warmth, safety and comfort to her children, grandchildren and countless relatives, friends and new babies who were given a gift straight from Gigi’s heart.

Gigi loved cooking and delicious food, and her Christmas Soup is a recipe that has been handed down through her family and friends, and will no doubt remain a lasting holiday tradition, warming everyone’s bellies as her blankets warmed their bodies.

In 2015, Gigi transitioned to Bride Brook Health & Rehabilitation Center in Niantic. Gigi was well-loved by the staff and other residents, and she was known for her great memory, telling wonderful stories of her travels with her late husband. Gigi showed affection and interest toward everyone she encountered, always remembering life events and birthdays. She continued to crochet at Bride Brook, and her blankets were a gift she offered to the babies born to the staff who cared for her.

Above all, Gigi’s greatest gift was the unconditional love she had for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She offered them compassion and encouragement regardless of circumstance. Her wish for each of her grandchildren was simple: to live fully and happily.

Irene was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 50 years, Ralph DiSaia.

She is survived by her sister, Barbara Conley and her husband, Joe, of Pawcatuck; her son, Ralph DiSaia and his wife, Karen, of Waterford; her grandchildren, Adam Demorest, Logan DiSaia and Rachel DiSaia; and her great-grandchildren, Carter and Dylan, as well as her dear friend, Nina Maryeski; and her many nieces and nephews for whom she always had love.

The family would like to thank the staff at Bride Brook Health & Rehabilitation Center for their great kindness and humor, and for keeping her comfortable and happy throughout her years there.

“To be kind is more important than to be right. Many times, what people need is not a brilliant mind that speaks but a special heart that listens.”

A celebration of Gigi’s life will be held in the spring.