Ms. Kristen DeFranzo-Rachuba

WATERBURY - It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that the family of Kristen DeFranzo -Rachuba age 42 of Waterbury, shares the news of her passing on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at the Vitas Inpatient Unit of Saint Marys Hospital after a valiant three year battle with cancer.

Kristen was born on February 15, 1983, the cherished daughter of John and Diane (Carrah) DeFranzo. A proud graduate of Blessed Sacrament School, Holy Cross High School, and then Central CT State University, Kristen discovered her passion for dance at the young age of three. For nearly three decades, she graced the Sunshine Dance Center Stage in Waterbury—not only as a dedicated performer, but also as a beloved teacher who shared her joy and talent with others. Above all, Kristen’s greatest joy came with the birth of her daughter. Devoted and nurturing, she poured her heart into motherhood, embracing every moment and taking an active role in Lily’s education and growth. Kristen was a constant fixture at Our Lady of Mount Carmel School, where she was awarded the prestigious honor of Hopes recipient. Even in her toughest times she never missed a school event. She treasured her daughter, who was truly her best friend, and cherished every moment spent with her. A woman of great faith, her love for her family was boundless, and her role as a devoted mother, was where she excelled most beautifully. Kristen leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and kindness — a life rich in accomplishment, passion, and tender devotion. Though she has left this earthly life, way too soon, her spirit will continue to inspire and her memory will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Rest now in peace, Kristen. Your legacy of love, laughter, and caring will live on forever.

Left to honor and cherish her memory, besides her parents, are her daughter Lily, her brother, Jeffery DeFranzo and his wife, Christine of Watertown, her nephews Domenic, Vincent, and Nicholas, her grandmother Sadie Carrah, and her beloved Ryan Harrington, who stood by her side every step of the way through her courageous battle, and several aunts, uncles, cousins and many great friends and extended family.

Funeral services for Kristen will be held on Thursday, September 18, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. when a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church 825 Highland Ave. Waterbury. Those planning to attend are kindly asked to meet directly at the church. Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main Street, Waterbury, CT 06705 is honored to be assisting this family during a very difficult time. To honor Kristen’s memory and in lieu of flowers the family requests you consider a donation to Lily’s College Fund. Donations can be made in person at any Thomaston Savings Bank location or checks payable to “Lily Rachuba” can be mailed to 565 Main St. Watertown CT 06795. Loving kindness is always welcome, and it only takes a moment to offer a message of condolence or words of comfort or share a memory of someone important to you. Please visit the funeral home’s tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to do so. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Kristen, please visit the gift store on our website.