Constance P. Black

Constance "Connie" P. Black, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2024, in Ellington, surrounded by her family. Born on December 24, 1936, in South Woodstock, Connecticut, to Lawrence Phaneuf and Alice LeClair, Connie led a life filled with dedication and love.

Connie devoted over 25 years of her professional life to Aetna Insurance, where she worked in the telecommunication department and was known for her commitment and hard work. Beyond her career, she was an active community member, serving as the Past Deputy Grand Regent of the Woman of the Moose Chapter 1470 during 2001 and 2002, reflecting her dedication to service and leadership.

A devoted fan of the Red Sox and Huskies, Connie enjoyed cheering on her favorite teams. She was also an avid bowler, creating many joyful memories at the lanes with family and her best friend of over 60 years, Jeanne Lombardo. Connie cherished her time at the Moose club, sharing laughs with good friends, and playing cards on a setback league every Wednesday with her partner, her daughter Terri. She never missed a birthday party with her friends Ann, Sandy, Sue, and Pat on Christmas Eve. Connie spoke with her daughter Carol daily and enjoyed weekly meals at her favorite restaurant, Savis, with her daughters Terri and Carol.

Connie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Black, and is survived by her children, Daniel Riccio and his wife Cynthia of Ellington, Carol Riordan of Vernon, Terri Morin and her husband Jack of Vernon, James Black and his wife Elaine of Florida, Stephen Black of Glastonbury, and Jeannie Russo of Fairfax, Vermont.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Daniel L. Riccio, Kelly Motolo, Dennis Riordan, Corey Schmitt, Liana Riccio, Molly Riccio, Joleen Giddens, Kaitlyn Black, and Krista Black, and her great-grandchildren Aiden Cameron, Chloe Motolo, Elijah D. Colorado, Peyton D. Bolling, Sean Plant, Meaghan Plant, Axton, and Garrison.

Connie was also preceded in death by her brothers Lawrence Phaneuf of Putnam, Bob Phaneuf, Richard Phaneuf of Woodstock, and Bernard Phaneuf of Putnam.

A funeral service will be held at Newkirk and Whitney Funeral Home, 318 Burnside Ave., East Hartford, CT, on July 23 between 10:00 AM and 12 Noon. A Prayer service will be held at 11AM. Immediately following, there will be a reception at Lena’s Restaurant in South Windsor.

A special Moose service surrounding a closed casket will be officiated by a member of the Catholic clergy. A private burial will take place at a later date, determined by the family, at the Silver Lane Cemetery in the special veteran section in East Hartford, Connecticut, where Connie will be buried next to her husband, James Black.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Connie’s memory will be cherished forever, and her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. A prayer card with the message “A Rose Once Grew” will be distributed in her honor.