Mary B. Peretto

Mary (Bellis) Peretto, 98, of Manchester, beloved wife of 49 years of the late Joseph Blun Peretto passed away peacefully at home with her family at her side on Wednesday, March 21, 2018. She was born in Strambino Crotte, Italy on January 13, 1920 one of eight children of the late Lawrence and Catherine (Cordera) Bellis. Mary was raised in Italy, came to the United States in 1948 and became a citizen in 1951. In her earlier years Mary was a professional seamstress. She was employed by Olivetti Textiles in Italy and later at Cheney Brothers in Manchester. Mary was a longtime, devoted Communicant of St. James Church in Manchester where she walked to Mass daily well in to her 80's. She was entirely devoted to God, her limitless faith and St. James Church. Mary's greatest love was her family, faith and becoming a US citizen. She never forgot or took for granted the opportunity that she was given by having a life and home in America. She took great pride in her grandchildren, instilling in them to "work hard" while you are young and telling them "now is your time". Mary never wanted anything and always understood that less was more. She enjoyed gardening, knitting, needlepoint and sewing. She had a true talent for cooking. She was well known for taking the simplest ingredients and her garden vegetables and turning them into a five star Italian feast. Mary is survived by her son and daughter-in-law; Michael J. and Angela (Connolly) Peretto of Manchester, her three loving and special grandchildren; Kaitlin Peretto-Kozlak and her husband Scott of Collinsville, Joseph Peretto and his wife Yaya of Tolland and Lauren Peretto of Manchester, her sister Speranza Bellis in Italy and several nieces, nephews and their families. In addition to her husband and parents Mary was predeceased by five sisters and one brother. The Peretto family would like to thank the Vernon VNA for their care and support. Especially Sally, Mary's trusted and compassionate caregiver for the past several months. Calling hours will be held at Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home, 400 Main St. in Manchester on Friday, March 23, 2018 from 5-7 pm. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 24th at 9:00 am at the funeral home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am at St. James Church, 896 Main St. in Manchester. Burial will follow in St. James Cemetery, Manchester. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. James Church. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

Visitation DetailsFriday, March 23rd, 2018 5:00pm - 7:00pm, Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home
Service DetailsSaturday, March 24th, 2018 10:00am, St. James Church
Interment DetailsSaturday, March 24th, 2018 11:30am, St. James Cemetery