Sister Eufemia Novello
Sister Eufemia (nee’ Teodolinda) Novello, POSC, a member of the Little Workers of the Sacred Hearts entered into eternity on September 12, 2021, lovingly cared for by her community of Sisters. Born on November 20, 1925 in San Martino di Finita (Cosenza), Italy, she was the daughter of Redendore and Elena (Ceraldi) Novello. Sister Eufemia is survived by her nephews Italo and Levio Bellafronte residing in Italy, her cousin Vincenza Corso residing in Florida and many nieces and nephews in Canada.
Sister Eufemia entered the Pontifical Institute of the Little Workers of the Sacred Hearts on August 25, 1950; made her first profession in July 1952 and took her perpetual vows on December 25, 1957.
Sister Eufemia faithfully served as a religious for 71 years. In 1954 along with four other members of her congregation, Sister Eufemia left Cosenza for Stamford to support the then fledgling apostolic mission in the United States. Upon her arrival, Sister Eufemia was assigned to Saint Basil’s Preparatory School as well as the Chancery of the Bishop of the Ukrainian Diocese of Stamford. From 1954 to1992, she was the principal chef for both Saint Basil’s Seminary and Saint Basil’s Prep, preparing hot meals for the hundreds of young men who passed through their doors. Since 1992, Sister Eufemia has been responsible for preparing meals for the eleven Sisters at Our Lady of Grace Convent, always providing them with sustenance and comfort. Until August, she was still busy in her beloved kitchen planning daily menus and helping to cook her famous recipes.
Known for her maternal love for her community, her unassuming humility and quiet determination, Sister Eufemia will long be remembered for her spirit of sacrifice and her pragmatic approach to her work. Indeed, if food is love, then Sister Eufemia spread abundant love to everyone she met.
Friends of Sister Eufemia and her community may call at Saint Maurice Roman Catholic Church, 358 Glenbrook Road in Stamford from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM on Friday, September 17, 2021. A Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow the viewing. Entombment will be at St. John Catholic Cemetery in Darien. Masks are required for all in attendance.
The Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Avenue, Stamford, CT 06902 is honored to assist the Sisters with the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to The Little Workers of the Sacred Hearts, c/o Our Lady of Grace Convent, 635 Glenbrook Road, Stamford, CT 06906-1409.