Louis D'Auria Jr.

January 10, 1948 – September 5, 2026

Louis D’Auria, Jr., of Madison, passed away surrounded by love and prayer in the home he helped build on September 5, 2026. Born in New Haven on January 10, 1948, son of the late Louis and Trofimena “Mayme” Saviello D’Auria, and younger brother to Alphose D’Auria, who passed away just three days prior.

Lou is survived by the love of his life and childhood sweetheart, his wife, Sandra Joyce Pagano D’Auria, his three loving children, Jessica D’Auria Manchester (Mitchell Manchester), Nichole Suzanne Pesaru (Shan Pesaru), and Jared Louis D’Auria, his beautiful grandchildren, Emelia, Luca, and Neela, who forever hold Poppy in their hearts, his younger brother Carl D’Auria, nieces, nephews, and the Pagano, D’Auria families.

Lou led with ambition and resourcefulness from an early age, working as a paperboy and becoming the first in his family to finance and attend college. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration Accounting from University of New Haven in 1971, and completed a Masters of Science in Management from The Hartford Graduate Center in 1993.

Lou began his professional career as an auditor at Blue Cross Blue Shield before hitting his stride in healthcare financial management. He went on to build an impressive career, including more than 20 years at Saint Mary’s Hospital in Waterbury, where he served as a Vice President. His work was instrumental in streamlining Patient Urgent Care, connecting insurance and care provider networks, building partnerships for Optum throughout Connecticut, implementing construction of the hospital’s pediatric parking garage, and overseeing management of the hospital-owned Quality Inn. He later worked closely with the Sisters of Mercy as Director at Mercy Center before going on to work in client relations for AmeriChoice UnitedHealthcare.

Recognized for his exceptional leadership, Lou was an instrumental member of The Healthcare Management Association for 10+ years, serving as President of the Connecticut Chapter (2006-2008). He received all seven of HFMA’s prestigious stewardship awards, including the MUNCIE Gold Merit Award for Outstanding Service and the Medal of Honor. Additionally, he was a member of the Board of Managers for Health Connecticut, LLC in 1999, holding the title of Chairman of the Board from 2000-2003.

Lou’s commitment to service extended beyond his professional life. He faithfully volunteered his time at Saint Margaret’s Church, organizing holiday toy drives, distributing Christmas trees, and serving as a Eucharistic Minister. He was also a familiar helping hand at the Pauline Baldwin food pantry in town.

Cheering on the Yankees, playing golf and cracking jokes were among Lou’s favorite pastimes.. May his Spirit forever roam the links chuckling as he recovers “wormburner” golf balls lost in the rough.

Lou’s family would like to thank Gentiva Hospice and Comfort Keepers for the unwavering love and care they provided during his illness. A Memorial Mass for Lou will be held Friday, September 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Margaret’s Church, 24 Academy Street, Madison, CT 06443, followed by a private burial. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, with details to follow. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.