Mary-Terese Botticello

Mary was born and raised in Newington and graduated from Newington High School in 1978. After taking business classes, she worked for many years as a legal secretary before choosing her most important job—being a stay-at-home mom. In 2001, she moved to sunny South Florida in search of warmth, sunshine, and a permanent break from snow.

She leaves behind her loving husband of 40 years, Anthony “Skip” Botticello; her son Scott Kelly and his fiancée Nancy Rodriguez of Rocky Hill; her daughter Nicole Miller and her husband Timothy of Newington; and her pride and joy—grandchildren Kendall, Austin, and Cameron “Cami” Miller. Known lovingly as “Nauni,” Mary was the kind of grandmother who always showed up with candy in her purse and a laugh on her lips.

Mary also leaves behind her sister Nancy Ritone and her husband Vincent; her brother Joseph Daly; her sister Patricia Daly; her loving sister-in-law’s who felt more like family than in-laws; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

Mary loved traveling to the tropics—especially Aruba. Just this past July, she and Skip spent two unforgettable weeks there celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary. Even a broken foot in a cast couldn’t slow her down or stop her from sipping cocktails in paradise.

Mary was known for her radiant smile, her joyful spirit, and her fierce love for family. She made frequent trips back to Connecticut to be with her children and grandchildren, often planning her visits around shopping adventures—especially to the Christmas Tree Shop in its glory days, Homegoods, and the outlets. She loved lobster rolls down by the shore, pina coladas at Bayside, shopping at Ross, and going for a ride just to grab a slurpee. You could find her floating on a raft in her pool working on her tan or at the nail salon choosing the brightest color. She never missed a chance to look and feel her best, even on an ordinary Tuesday. Though she had little patience for new technology, she made exceptions for online shopping and FaceTime calls with her grandkids.

Mary was predeceased by her parents, Alice and Robert Daly; her aunts Margie and Mary “Meme” Lynch; sister-in-law Patricia Van Tasel; brother-in-law Stephen Botticello; niece Crystal Marie Daly, and other cherished loved ones. We find comfort in knowing she’s reunited with Meme—probably catching up on QVC or HSN’s latest deal.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Holy Cross Hospital, especially the nurses in the Cardiovascular ICU, for their exceptional care, compassion, and support.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on Saturday, August 16 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 171 Pascone Place in Newington. All who knew and loved Mary are welcome to join in remembering her love, her laughter, and the joy she brought to so many. Dress however you feel most comfortable—Mary wouldn’t have had it any other way. But if you’re feeling bold, add a pop of bright color in her honor.