In Memory of

Marilyn

H.

Cataldi

(Hess)

Obituary for Marilyn H. Cataldi (Hess)

Marilyn Ruth Hess Cataldi departed planet earth and continued on to eternal life on February 13, 2021. Marilyn was born in Hartford, CT to Ruth (Baum) and Carl Hess. She lived most of her life in Hartford and Wethersfield, CT and the past years in Port Orange, FL. Since childhood, Marilyn spent her summers at one of her favorite places, White Sands Beach in Old Lyme, CT. Fond memories of times spent swimming, fishing and searching for beautiful sea glass always brought a smile to her face.
Marilyn enjoyed reading, gardening, crafting, knitting and crocheting and any challenging puzzle. She had an eye for art and antiques and ventured to many a church and estate sale alongside her sister-in-law and best friend, Johanna Cataldi Wolsiuk (who pre-deceased her). Most of the treasures they found were in the camaraderie and laughs they shared together. She loved music and singing, which was a tradition in the Hess family. Marilyn had a wonderful voice and devoted many years singing with the St. Augustine’s Church choir.
We would be remiss not to mention Marilyn’s avid support of the UConn Huskies basketball teams. She hardly ever missed an opportunity to cheer her hometown team on through all their wins and dare we say, even a few losses. Above and beyond all things, family was her priority. Never a family gathering went without her famous crunchy baked chicken or her superb sausage and peppers! Thanksgiving was always a special occasion, as she hosted the entire family for many years creating a gastronomical feast. Marilyn never forgot any friend or family members birthday, anniversary or milestone occasion. She always made sure everyone was acknowledged with a gift, card or phone call.
Marilyn was devout in her faith and beliefs, she had an inner strength that carried her through a long terminal illness from Pulmonary Fibrosis, which she battled with both grace and courage. She never felt sorry for herself nor uttered a word of complaint. This is who she was; a quiet, solid and steady force whose faith in God guided her throughout life’s joys and sorrows.
Marilyn leaves behind her devoted husband of 65 years, George A. Cataldi of Port Orange, FL. Her daughter Carla M. Cataldi of East Hampton, CT and daughter Marie A. Woodhull and her husband Clement Jay Woodhull of Vero Beach, FL. A son, Andrew J. Cataldi of Wethersfield, CT.
Her grandchildren, Alexandra Sayer and husband Jeff of Delray Beach, FL. Corbin Woodhull of Portland, CT. Andrew J. Cataldi Jr. and Christopher G. Cataldi of Wethersfield, CT. Great grandchildren, Hunter and Harper Sayer of Delray Beach, FL. And two loving nieces, Andrea Alvarado of Marshfield, MA and Maria Fenton of Wethersfield, CT. Marilyn also leaves behind two great nieces and three great nephews, cousins and many friends both old and new from CT and FL.
There will be a mass of Christian burial on Saturday, March 27, 2021 at 11:00 am at the Church of the Incarnation, 544 Prospect St. Wethersfield, CT. The church requires social distancing, masks and adheres to all Covid 19 regulations. Please use the east parking lot and east entrance to the church. Burial will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery, 453 Fairfield Ave., Hartford, CT
That being said, the family is completely understanding of those unable to attend due to Covid risks. We would so much want to gather with family and friends afterwards but to do so in these troubled times would be difficult and hardly safe. At a future date, if restrictions are eased, we will all gather to celebrate Marilyn’s life with food and drink, sharing lots of stories and hugs! In lieu of flowers please make a donation to your favorite charity or better yet, perform a random act of kindness in Marilyn’s name.
The family would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Marilyn’s dedicated and compassionate caregivers, the RN’s and CNAs from Halifax Hospice in Port Orange, FL and especially to both Lynn Sciarra and Dianne Pica, both of whom held a special place in Marilyn’s heart. The Farley-Sullivan Funeral Home has care of the arrangements. To extend condolences, please visit Farleysullivan.com.