Nancy Manzari Saiano, 97, a resident of East Haven entered into rest on August 2, 2022 at her home.  She was the wife of the late Peter J. Saiano, Sr.  Nancy leaves a large and loving family, including her two children Sarah Saiano (Blaise Zullo, former son-in-law) and Peter J. (Linda DeLeon) Saiano, Jr.; three grandchildren Christina Zullo, Jennifer Zullo and Matthew (Stephanie Lugo) Zullo; seven great grandchildren Rhianna (Tom Pacelli), Isabella (Glen Riccitelli) and William Kaminsky, Chloe and Kyle Cusano, Aria and Leiana Zullo and three great- great grandchildren Arabella, Giada and Kendall.  Her siblings, Isabelle and Louis Manzari predecease her.  

Nancy was the devoted matriarch of her five-generation family, hosting many holiday spreads and providing assistance anyway she could. Her Christmas “grab bag” is legendary. Aside from her family, she had many interests and led a very active life.  From a young age, dancing was a passion, and she spent many nights attending dances at the “Y.” She had a fine musical sensibility, and her excellent mezzo-soprano (which she especially loved to lend to Spanish songs) even attracted the attention of area bandleaders. When she wasn’t fundraising and volunteering for Cooley’s Anemia, Nancy was vacationing with Peter at their condo in Florida and enjoying time with family there. 

As a legal secretary Nancy’s career spanned many years working for several lawyers and law firms throughout the New Haven area, who benefited from her impeccable English language command, typing and stenography skill, and attention to detail.  Although she officially retired, Nancy continued assisting and filling in when needed until the age of 85.

The hours for visitation will take place on Monday August 8 between 4 and 7 pm at the West Haven Funeral Home at the green.  On Tuesday morning, all are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial in  St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish at St. Bernadette Church 385 Townsend Ave. New Haven   at 11 o’clock.  Interment will follow in St. Lawrence Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to www.thalassemia.org.