Raffelena A. Latino

SPRINGFIELD - Raffelena (Raffie) A. Latino, 87, of Springfield, MA, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, June 13, 2019 in her home.

Raffelena, a daughter of the late Luca F. and Maddalena (Melino) Latino, was born in Springfield on July 28, 1931.

After graduating from Commerce High School, Raffelena attended American International College (AIC) where she earned her Bachelor of Arts (BA) with Honors in 1967 and later graduated from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst where she earned her Masters of Arts (MA) in English in 1974. This educational specialization prepared her well for her 29-year career (1968-1997) as an English teacher at Minnechaug Regional High School.

A lifelong resident of Springfield, she was a long-standing member of Mount Carmel Church.

Besides her parents, Raffelena was predeceased by her sister Camille (Ashe) Latino and brother Nicholas Latino.

Raffelena is survived by her sister’s and brother’s children: her nieces Debra Bokon (and her husband Bill) of RI, and Catherine Ashe (and her spouse Jean DeMartinis) of MA; her nephews Robert Ashe (and his wife Jessie) of OH, and Mark Latino (and his wife Joremay) of CT; her great nephews and niece Adam Bokon, Ryan and Stephen Ashe and Brent and Natalie Latino and their families; 5 great great nieces and nephews; a large extended family in the area; her special longtime friend Tini Koss of CT; and her caring and loving neighbor Kim.

Raffelena was the epitome of a “strong independent woman” ahead of women of her generation and a master storyteller. She was highly intelligent, quite articulate, and proud of her heritage as an Italian. She will always be remembered for her strong faith, caring, kindness and unconditional love for her family (as well as her beloved dog Willow—her longtime companion).

The family would like to express their deep gratitude to Dr. Michael Rosen, Hematologist/Oncologist, her “savior”, and his oncology staff who treated her so well over the many years she received chemotherapy. Special thanks to the “Aunt Raffie (AR) Care Team”—Melissa, Lynn, Nikisha, Lisa, Susan, Kathy, and Linda—who dedicated themselves to providing the highest level of constant, compassionate care to Raffie through to the end. The family would also like to extend a heartfelt thanks to her “third niece” Jean DeMartinis for her loving care and friendship over the years.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Monday, June 24, 2019 from 4 – 7 PM at Forastiere Funeral Home, 45 Locust Street, Springfield. Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, June 25, 2019 beginning at 8:45 AM at the funeral home followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 10 AM at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 123 William St. Springfield. Burial will be in St. Michael’s Cemetery, State St. Springfield.

Memorial contributions in Raffelena’s memory may be made to Sister Caritas Cancer Center 271 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104