Evelyn LaMonica

January 10, 2023

Evelyn Ann (Porto) LaMonica passed away on January 10, 2023 after a long illness. A devoted wife and mother, she leaves behind her husband, Paul LaMonica of West Haven, a son, Paul LaMonica, of Somerset, New Jersey, a daughter Gina Russo and her husband Brian, of West Haven, and grandchildren Paul LaMonica, Susan LaMonica and Vincent Russo. She joins in Heaven her father and mother, Pasquale and Pasqualina Porto, sister Margaret Battista and her husband Al, sister Yolanda Porto, and grandson Michael LaMonica.

Evelyn was born and raised in New Haven. A graduate of Hillhouse High School, where she was a Rangerette, she received a BS in Elementary Education from Southern Connecticut State College in 1960. She and her husband moved to West Haven in 1964 where she lived her entire adult life. In addition to being a full-time wife and mother, Evelyn taught fourth grade in Cheshire and Guilford, and served as a substitute teacher, a receptionist at Star Drug, and a secretary to the late Dr. Rosen in New Haven.

Evelyn was an accomplished cook – her homemade pizza and Italian cream pie were world famous. She loved sewing, both clothes for her daughter and several award-winning Halloween costumes. She was a fan of Barbra Streisand, Carole King, and Mariah Carey. She enjoyed spending time at the beach, especially Lighthouse Point and Gulf Beach – and she loved Sleeping Giant State Park.

Evelyn kept friends from all times in her life – her high school girlfriends, her friends from college, her bowling friends, and even friends she met in the last decade of her life.

Evelyn enjoyed several trips – a pilgrimage to Fatima, Portugal, a visit to her sister in Los Angeles, and a vacation in New Orleans with her husband and children. Evelyn enjoyed spending time in Ogunquit, Maine, at Cape Cod, and in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

Evelyn’s life was defined by three major characteristics. First, she was fiercely protective of her family and friends, especially her husband and children. Second, she had great insight into people’s heart – she understood their motivations, fears, and worries. And finally, she was fearlessly outspoken; no one ever had to wonder what she thought.

The hours for visitation will take on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 from 4 to 7 pm at the West Haven Funeral Home at the green. On Thursday morning a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Our lady of Victory Church at 9:30. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Connecticut Hospice or to The Mary Wade Home. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit our website www.westhavenfuneral.com