Joanna P. Seio

Joanna (Pappa) Seio, 84, of Newington, entered peacefully into God’s care with her loving family by her side on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Born in Hartford on May 30, 1941, she was the daughter of the late Francesco and Carmela (Dellaripa) Pappa and cherished wife for 63 years of the late Kenneth J. Seio.

Joanna graduated from Bulkeley High School and worked for many years in the medical field, both at Hartford Hospital and Cardiac Care. As a young mother, she worked nights at Bradlees, where she met her lifelong friend, Barbara Donofrio, and her daughter Christine, with whom she later worked at Cardiac Care.

Joanna was an accomplished artist who could master any task she tackled. She had an innate sense for decorating and was fearless when it came to watercolor, sewing, wallpapering, knitting, floral arranging, gardening or any other craft that caught her attention. If you came to her with an idea, she would make it happen. Joanna was also an amazing cook who loved nothing more than preparing for holidays and welcoming large crowds to her home. She relished in the cookie and pie-making productions that took days of preparation. She knew that whomever she roped in would enjoy many hours of good laughs. Jo was always up for a good story, adding her mischievous and often naughty take. Above all, she loved spending time with her family.

Joanna will be forever missed by her daughters, Kimberly Cianci (Jim) and Heather Giangrave (Paul); her son, Kenneth Todd Seio and her adored granddaughter, Gianna Giangrave. She is also survived by her brothers, Phillip Pappa and wife RoseAnn and George Pappa and wife Carol; brother-in-law, William Schaufler; sisters-in-law MaryBeth Pappa and Valerie Bernier and husband Norman, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. In addition to her husband and parents, Joanna was predeceased by her brother, Francis Pappa, Jr. and her sister, Frances Schaufler as well as her loyal, affectionate, and loving Yorkie, Marcello.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt and profound gratitude to the special people at Jefferson House in Newington for their compassionate and respectful care. Michelle, Elyse, Aida, Lily, Pauline, Padde, Liereth, Darlene, Shilda, Shirley, Opal, among others, you became like family to us, and we thank you for making a difficult time more bearable.

Calling hours will be Monday, May 18 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. concluding with a Prayer Service at 12 p.m. at the D’Esopo Funeral Chapel, 277 Folly Brook Boulevard, Wethersfield. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.