Elsie E. Pia Lombra

Elsie E. Pia Lombra, 99, of Hamden/Cheshire, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025. She was born at St. Raphael’s Hospital on June 18, 1925 to Letticia and John Pia. Elsie was predeceased by the love of her life, Eugene L. Lombra, in 2007, her loving daughter, JoAnne, in 2021, and her brother, Arthur Pia. Elsie is survived by her son, Ray (Bobbi), and her devoted son-in-law, George Grande. She is also survived by her grandson, Geoffrey Grande, granddaughter, Jaime McAllister-Grande, grandchildren, Sherri (Dan Zebrowski), Todd (Nancy) and Brian (Laura), and great-grandchildren, Eli Grande, Noelle McAllister-Grande, Cleo McAllister-Grande, Eve McAllister-Grande, Chase, Connor, Blake, Alexis and Elle Lombra, and Cooper and Chloe Zebrowski.

A lifelong resident of Hamden, Elsie attended Hamden Public Schools. Among the many positions she held, her most cherished was as a teacher’s aide in the Hamden Public School system. Always a champion of good grammar and accurate spelling, she loved helping students navigate their schoolwork. Proud of her Italian heritage, she always urged all family and friends to “stay close,” and cherished the many family gatherings she hosted.

Special thanks to all the dedicated staff at Elim Park Place in Cheshire, CT, where Elsie resided so happily for the last decade, and to George Grande for his devotion, care and support for Elsie.

Per the family’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. A graveside service and burial will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 26th in Centerville Cemetery, Washington Avenue, Hamden; friends and family are welcome. There will be a Celebration of Life this summer. If so desired, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are in care of Beecher & Bennett Funeral Home, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden. To send condolences to her family, please visit www.beecherandbennett.com.