Christina Leone

Christina Leone of East Hartford died Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at home. Born in Hartford on February 5, 1970 she was the oldest daughter of Beverly (Sogaro) Leone and the late William A. Leone. She was a graduate of Kingswood Oxford School, Gettysburg College, and Fordham University. During her years at Kingswood Oxford, she was actively involved both on and off the stage. On stage, she participated in chorus and various theater productions. Off the stage, she took great pride in serving as manager of the girls' varsity basketball team. She also showcased her remarkable knowledge as a member of the 1988 As Schools Match Wits High School Bowl championship team. Her love of learning remained a defining part of her life. An avid reader with a passion for trivia and word games, Christina achieved one of her proudest accomplishments in August 2021 when she appeared as a contestant on Jeopardy!, earning an impressive second-place finish. Theater and music were among Christina's greatest joys. She cherished trips to Broadway and performances at The Bushnell, and was a passionate supporter of the local arts. She was formerly employed by The Hartford Stage Company and could often be found at the Little Theater of Manchester. In addition to being a devoted season ticket holder there, Christina generously volunteered in a number of ways including acting as house manager, serving as an usher, preparing for their annual gala, and organizing their silent auction. Christina was also an active participant in the East Hartford Summer Youth Festival, performing in more than a dozen productions and serving as a member on the Board of Directors. Professionally, Christina served with dedication in the Office of Advancement at Wesleyan University as Assistant Director of Engagement Operations. Beyond her career, she most enjoyed relaxing by the water along the Connecticut shoreline with a good book, cheering enthusiastically for her six nieces and nephews at their sporting events, performances, and other activities, and gathering with family around the fire pit. In addition to her mother, Beverly, she is survived by her two sisters and their husbands, Melissa and Rick Delaney of Ellington, and Valerie and Dominick Calciano of Glastonbury; her nieces and nephews, Andrew, Ryan, and Kaitlyn Delaney, and Gianna, Dominick, and Liliana Calciano; her uncle, Rev. Bryan A. Leone, and his wife, Kay; her aunt, Luevelyn Rector; and her cousins, Kari Hagar and her husband, Sam, Dr. Timothy Leone and his wife, Jennifer, and Emily Leone, as well as many other cousins and extended family with whom she shared a special bond. She was predeceased by her father, William A. Leone; her uncle, Frank A. Leone; and her grandparents, Alvin and Rosemary Leone, and Dr. Louis and Evelyn Sogaro.

Christina’s family will receive friends and family at D’Esopo East Hartford Memorial Chapel, 30 Carter Street East Hartford on Tuesday, July 28 from 4 to 7 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 29 at St. Patrick-St. Anthony Church, 285 Church Street Hartford (please go directly to the church). Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery (Section B), Burnside Avenue. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Little Theater of Manchester at Cheney Hall, 177 Hartford Road, Manchester, CT 06040