Rebecca Loisell Salerno

Rebecca L. McKeag (Young) Salerno of Goodyear, Arizona, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family, on September 24, 2025. Becky was born on June 22, 1942, in Waterbury, Connecticut, to William S. and Bernice McKeag.

Becky graduated from Thomaston High School and furthered her education at St. Mary’s School of Nursing in Waterbury. She fulfilled a lifelong dream by working in the operating room at St. Mary’s Hospital. Becky's passion for her profession was evident in her dedication and longevity, spending almost 50 years serving in Waterbury and later in Phoenix, Arizona.

Her love of travel took her to Europe several times and across the US, visiting historic sites and creating lifelong friendships. Becky loved to entertain for friends and family. Whether it was playing cards with friends or hosting holiday get togethers for family. The annual Christmas party at her home for 40 or 50 friends was a must attend event. And no one could forget her famous made from scratch lemon meringue pie, made with lemons picked in her back yard.

She was a member of the Association of Operating Room Nurses, Catholic Daughters of America and the Tovrea/Carraro Society in Arizona. Over the years she was also a volunteer at her church and a local women’s shelter.

Brightening any room with her warm and loving demeanor, Becky was known for her ready smile for all. She had a particular soft spot for her grandson Colin, granddaughter Sailor, and great-grandson Jaiden, who were the loves of her life.

Becky was preceded in death by her father, William S. McKeag, her mother, Bernice McKeag, her son, Christopher Young, and her granddaughter, Brittany Young.

She is survived by her spouse, Joseph Salerno; daughter, Dr. Denise Young of Litchfield Park, Arizona; son, Richard Young (Annabelle) of Naugatuck, Connecticut; grandson, Colin Dunlap of Litchfield Park, Arizona; granddaughter, Sailor Rose Young of Naugatuck, Connecticut; great-grandson, Jaiden Ward of Watertown, Connecticut. Becky is also survived by many relatives and friends especially Diane Hollenbeck, sister-in-law JoAnn Pagano, Barbara Reily, Betty Buzzuto, Bonnie Warner, and countless other friends.

Becky's life was a beautiful testament of service, love, and dedication, and her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.