Maura Cortese

Waterbury-Maura (Kerwin) Cortese, 63, passed away on Thursday, January 23, 2014 at Gaylord Hospital in Wallingford surrounded by her loving family. She was the wife of the late Anthony Cortese, Jr.

Mrs. Cortese was born on April 29, 1950 in Brooklyn, NY a daughter of the late James Kerwin and Mary (Garrity) Kerwin. Affectionately known as "Baker" by her cottage Maura was retired from Southbury Training School where she worked for many years. Maura could walk for days along a beach enjoying the story behind a seashell the beauty of a lighthouse, and the tranquility of the ocean.

She is survived by two daughters, Elizabeth Cortese of Waterbury, and Christina Woodley and her husband John of Waterbury, her life partner of 25 years, James Dellorfano of Terryville, her sister, Joan Tambling of Waterbury. She will also be missed by her grandchildren, Jessica and Jamie Edwards, and Jeffrey Windischman, as well as her great-granddaughter, Ella Bella and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by two brothers, James and Kevin Kerwin.

Although Maura's passing was untimely her presence will continue in all who remember her.

A memorial mass will be held on Friday, January 31, 2014 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Church, 625 Baldwin Street, Waterbury. Everyone is asked to meet directly at the church. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours and the Buckmiller Brothers Funeral Home, 82 Fairview Ave, Naugatuck is in charge of the arrangements.