Jacqueline Diana

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Jacqueline Wallace Diana of Westbrook, formerly of Avon. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and best friend. She passed away peacefully on October 10, 2022, surrounded by her family and friends. Born May 31, 1943, in Greenwich, CT, she was the daughter of John Wallace. A curious, adventurous child, she lived life to the fullest with zest, energy, and grace. At only 5' 1", her petite stature and adorable nature made her cute; although she loathed being called "cute". Cuteness never kept her from pursuing her passions of ballet, art, ice skating, cheerleading, and attending college to become a teacher. She taught in NJ and then for many years at St. Mary Catholic School in Simsbury, CT, where she was a much-loved fifth grade and then second grade teacher. She touched the lives of hundreds of students. While teaching was her calling, what brought her the most delight was being a wife, mother, and grannie. In college, set up on a blind date, she met the love of her life, Daniel. One look at her lean dancer's legs and her beautiful face and he was devoted forever. They married in 1965, and she worked to support him while he attended medical school. Upon the arrival of her daughters, Deb and Amy, she stayed home and joyfully raised them; treasuring the times with them, attending every school party, event, and game throughout the years, encouraging and cheering them on with every ounce of her being. Once grandchildren arrived, mom felt her life was complete. She felt truly blessed to be surrounded by her family, who loved her endlessly. Her most favorite times were spent traveling with Dan, boating, being with her family, spending time with friends, and interacting with her church community. Incredibly strong in her faith, she lived God's word every day, His true angel walking on this earth. Heartbroken and left to mourn her passing is the love of her life, and husband, Dan; her adored children, Deb and Mark Zacchio of CT and Amy and James Natalicchio of NJ; and her cherished grandchildren, Nick and Dean Zacchio and Diana and Dylan Natalicchio. In addition, she leaves a host of cousins, and so many wonderful friends, who were there for her in her time of need; for their unending friendship and support, countless rides, and just being there for our mom.

A visitation will take place on Friday, October 14, at Swan Funeral Home in Clinton, CT, from 9-10:30 a.m. Funeral procession will leave the Swan Funeral Home, 80 East Main Street, Clinton, Friday, October 14, 2022 at 10:45 a.m. to go to St. Mary's Church of the Visitation, 54 Grove Street, Clinton, for a Mass of Christian burial at 11 a.m. Interment to follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, Clinton. Friends may call at the Swan Funeral Home Friday, from 9 a.m. -10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, please share a smile or an act of kindness toward others because that is how Jacki lived her life, as a caring, loving soul, and our Angel on Earth. Her legacy of love, faith, family, and friendship will live on forever.