Gerald

Cozzolino

WATERTOWN - Gerald Anthony Cozzolino, affectionately known as Jerry or “Cozz”, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2026, at the age of 84. Born in Waterbury, Connecticut, Jerry was the son of the late Gerald Cozzolino and Awilde Hebert. He was a longtime resident of Oakville, Connecticut.

Jerry leaves behind his devoted wife, Janice (Hoffman) Cozzolino. The two met in 1961 while working together at the Bristol Company. Jerry had his eye on Janice from the start, and before long, the two became a couple. They went on to share more than 62 years of marriage, building a life centered on family, friendship, and shared adventures. Jerry also leaves behind his beloved three children: his daughter Lisa Pavao, and his sons, Robert Cozzolino (Norlean) and Richard Cozzolino. He was predeceased by his son-in-law, Mark Pavao.

Jerry was a proud grandfather to Brooke Speziale (Nick), Lauren, Michaela, and Chase. His step-grandchildren include Cameron and Justin. He was predeceased by his step-grandson Michael in 2011. Jerry was looking forward to welcoming his first great-grandchild, Joseph Richard “Joey” Speziale, born on November 6, 2026. He is also lovingly remembered by his sister Lois Garafola (Pat), his brother, Peter Cozzolino (Cora), and several nieces and nephews.

Jerry graduated from Crosby High School and Waterbury State Technical College. He dedicated more than 45 years of his professional life to the Timex Corporation, where he was known for his commitment and strong work ethic. Above all, Jerry was a thoughtful, caring, and respectful man who devoted himself to his family and his work. He was someone others could always count on. Whether family, friends, or coworkers needed help, Jerry was often the first to lend a hand and the last to leave, always making sure the job was done. His generosity and willingness to help others extended beyond his working years. During retirement, he continued giving back by volunteering at the Harold Leever Regional Cancer Center in Waterbury, helping to transport patients.

Jerry had a lifelong love of automobiles, auto racing, and trains. From a young age, he enjoyed attending car shows and following auto racing at circuits throughout the Northeast. One of his most treasured possessions was his 1955 pink Thunderbird, which was his pride and joy before his family came along. His appreciation for classic automobiles continued throughout his later years, when he owned several Corvettes. During retirement, Jerry also enjoyed tinkering with trains and building elaborate train layouts on train boards. He loved traveling throughout the world with Janice and many friends, creating countless memories along the way. Just as much, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends over a good meal.

Jerry will be remembered for his kindness, thoughtfulness, strong work ethic, love of family, and willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed one. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. The family would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to the nurses and aides from VITAS Healthcare in Middlebury, Connecticut, for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided to Jerry and his family. Their dedication and thoughtfulness will always be appreciated

Funeral services for Mr. Cozzolino will be held on Saturday, November 28, 2026, at 10:30 a.m.at The Casey-O’Neill Funeral Home 742 Main St Oakville CT. Burial will follow in Mt Olivet Cemetery, Watertown. Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects and visit with the Cozzalino family on Saturday morning from 9:30 until the services commence at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home. The outdoor burial service is open to all family and friends. Please dress appropriately for the weather. To honor Jerry’s memory and in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to a charity of the donor’s choice, in keeping with Jerry’s lifelong spirit of willingness to help others. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Jerry to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com