Elvira Gilbertie

Elvira Gilbertie, 97, longtime Norwalk resident and beloved wife of the late Albert P. Glbertie, died on March 5, 2023 at Sunrise of Wilton. Born in Minturno, Italy, the daughter of the late Crecenzo and Filipa Maratta, she was predeceased by her sisters, Maria, Lucia, Rosa and Anunziata of Italy and her brother, Lucio “Antonio” Maratta of Norwalk. She was also predeceased by their daughter Denise Gilbertie, on whom they lavished their love and devotion throughout her 48 years with them.

After spending many years as baby nurse and caregiver to several nieces and nephews in Italy, Elvira decided she wanted a change and a more independent life. In 1955, she came to the US by herself, aboard the Cristoforo Colombo into Ellis Island. She worked at Charles of the Ritz, a cosmetic manufacturer in Norwalk. She later met her husband, Albert, and they were married in 1959. She helped her husband with the family businesses, the Norwalk Florist, and later the Westport Florist. A woman of great love and generosity, she was a proud volunteer at Norwalk Hospital for over 50 years, until she was 91 years old. In addition, she volunteered with Person-toPerson, and the American Cancer Society. Throughout her life, Elvira kept in touch with many friends who also emigrated from Italy. She loved people and in return was loved by them.

She is survived by her son Richard Gilbertie and his fiancée Melanie, daughter Dina Phelps and her husband Stephen, five cherished grandchildren: Lena, Madison, Jack, Ryan and Katherine.

Funeral services will be held at 11AM on Friday, March 10, at the Magner Funeral Home, 12 Mott Ave., Norwalk, with entombment to follow at St. John Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: The Norwalk Hospital Foundation.

For directions or to send a message of condolence to his family, please visit: www. Magnerfuneralhome.com