Mary DiBernardi, age 83, of Middletown, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026. She was born on November 21, 1942, and was a lifelong resident of Middletown, a community she loved deeply and served faithfully throughout her life.

Mary was a proud graduate of the University of Connecticut, where she earned her degree in Nursing. She devoted much of her professional career to Middlesex Convalescent Center, where she was known not only for her skill, but for her extraordinary compassion. Mary consistently went above and beyond in caring for the elderly and most vulnerable, always offering comfort, dignity, and kindness to those entrusted to her care. Above all, Mary was devoted to her family. She was the loving mother of four children and a cherished grandmother to nine grandchildren.

Despite the demands of work and family life, she seemed to possess limitless energy when it came to meeting the needs of those she loved. True to her nature, Mary always put others before herself, offering support, encouragement, and quiet strength in every situation. Mary will be fondly remembered for her radiant smile and heartwarming laugh, which could brighten any room. She found great joy in tending her flower gardens and had a deep love for all living creatures. Along with caring for her many pets over the years—including dogs, cats, hamsters, and fish—she made sure the outdoor birds and squirrels were fed faithfully each day, a small but meaningful reflection of her generous heart.

A lifelong member of St. Francis of Assisi Church, Mary's faith was a guiding force in her life and an inspiration to those around her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, selflessness, and compassion that will continue to live on through her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.

Mary is predeceased by her parents John and Laura Rizzi, and her husband Fred DiBernardi. She is survived by three daughters, Rena Reagan and her husband Tom of Middletown, Lynn Zimmer and her husband Michael of Colchester, Diane Mazzone and her husband Mark of Wethersfield, and a son, David DiBernardi and his wife Amber of Middletown. Mary loved each of her nine grandchildren, Andrew, Kevin, and Nicole Reagan, Amanda, Matthew, and Katie Zimmer, Mary Mazzone, and Emilia and Olivia DiBernardi. Mary has one brother George Rizzi and his wife Barbara of Cincinnati, Ohio.

Friends may call at Biega Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 4th, from 5 to 7 p.m. A Funeral Liturgy will be held on Thursday, February 5th at 11 a.m.at Saint Francis of Assisi Church, 3 Elm Street, Middletown. Burial will be held at the State Veterans' Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be sent to St. Francis Church. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.