Obituary of Margaret M. Maffei

Margaret M. (Peggy) Maffei, 89, of New Britain and Plainville, Conn., died peacefully on Sunday morning, May 22, 2011, at New Britain General Hospital after a brief illness. Peggy was born on Jan. 13, 1922 in New Britain to Edward A. and Fannie (Thompson) Madden. Peggy was a graduate of New Britain High School, and was employed in her early life at North and Judd. She was the devoted wife, soul mate and partner of Leo J. Maffei for 64 years. The seven months since her husband predeceased her in October 2010 represent the most trying and painful period of her life. But, as was her nature, she weathered the emotional storm and conveyed a positive and hopeful attitude to her family and friends. She freely stated that it was her lifelong commitment to Christ that helped her persevere and survive. Of all the accomplishments that could have marked her life, Peggy would say that her family was most important. She proudly considered herself a mother and homemaker first and foremost, and devoted herself to expressing her love for her children, siblings, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and grandnieces in every way she could, as often as she could. Her generosity is legendary. For Peggy, the hardest part of leaving this world would be saying goodbye. Instead, she promised to see those she loved again in the future. Her spirit will return soon, and those who loved her can look for her in the eyes of a loving child, the offer of friendship from a stranger, the smile of someone who is genuinely glad to see you. Of all the things we might remember, we will remember most the expression on her face whenever those she loved came to see her...a bright smile, wide open eyes, and arms ready for a hug. If we could ask her what she thought her most important contribution to the world might be, she would say love, because that was the currency of her life. Peggy is survived by her daughter, Carol Smith, of New Britain, her son and daughter-in-law, Don and Jeanne Massey of Simsbury, her granddaughters, Caitlin Massey of New Orleans and Erin Massey of Simsbury, her brother and sister-in-law, Edward and Mary Madden of Plantsville, her sister-in-law, Lena Quattropani of Hilton Head, SC, and 12 nieces, grandnieces and nephews around the country. Funeral services will be private for family and close friends, with entombment at St. Mary Cemetery Garden Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association, 5 Brookside Drive, Wallingford, CT 06492, or to a charity of the donor's choice.