Obituary of Marie D. Appleby

Marie Ruggiero Appleby, age 81, of Milford, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born in Bridgeport on March 2, 1944, she was the beloved daughter of the late Patsy F. and Lucy Marra Ruggiero.

Marie was a devoted mother, proud grandmother, adoring great-grandmother, and a loyal friend. A longtime employee of Markal Finishing, she was known for her tireless work ethic, her generous heart, and her ability to find joy in life's simple pleasures.

Marie treasured time with her family most of all. Her happiest moments were spent with her grandchildren and great-grandson, listening to oldies, watching over the kids, and taking the occasional cruise. A proud Italian-American, she expressed her love through cooking—her Sunday dinners were legendary. From her homemade manicotti and "gravy" to her chocolate chip cheese squares, Marie's kitchen was a place of comfort and connection.

To know Marie was to be embraced by her warmth, her strength, and her unwavering love. Her devotion to her family, her infectious laughter, and the values she instilled will live on in all who were lucky enough to know her.

Marie is survived by her two loving sons, Frank T. Appleby Sr. and his wife Lynn of Ansonia, and Scott T. Appleby and his wife Kristi of Monroe; three cherished grandchildren, Frank T. Appleby Jr. and his wife Stephanie, and Michael and Dominic Appleby; and her adored great-grandson, Frank T. Appleby III, "Frankie". She also leaves behind her sister, Annette Kosc and her husband Ray Kosc; her longtime companion, Robert Dunphy; and her dear lifelong friends, Janet "Torchy" Collins, Linda DiStefano, and Sally Moran. Marie was a beloved aunt, cousin, and friend to many, and her memory will be held close by all who knew her.

She was predeceased by her brother, Anthony J. Ruggiero, and her former husband, Arnold T. Appleby.

Marie's love was the kind that never fades. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and family values—a legacy that will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, July 3, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. directly in St. Andrew's Church, 435 Anton St. Bridgeport. Relatives and friends can greet the family on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 from 4 - 7 p.m. in the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Road, Trumbull. Family remembrances will take place on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. in the funeral home. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Jude Children's Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. To leave an online condolence please visit www.abriola.com.