Leatrice "Lea" A. Porter

Leatrice "Lea" Ann (Gioia) Porter, 83, of Southington, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, September 16, 2023. She was the loving wife of Sterling A. Porter, Jr. for 65 years. She was born on February 21, 1940 in Torrington, CT to the late Adolph Gioia and Nancy (Lagana) Foffa and had been a longtime Southington resident.

 In addition to her husband Sterling "Buddy," she is survived by 5 children; Nancy Brennan (Mike) of Wolcott, Margaret Kalivas (Gus) of Oxford, Joann Herms (Chris) of Southington, Sterling Porter III (Katy) of Plainville and Kelly Laone (Dan) of Southington, 21 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Janet Greaves (Rodney) of Southington and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her grandson, Ian James Lawrence and her brother, Richard (Buzzy) Gioia. She cherished her 5 children who were always the center of her focus.

 Lea’s caring and giving spirit could be seen when fostering many children in need. She had a large family and always distributed her love evenly and equally to all. Lea worked at the American Red Cross for many years and then retired from the Town of Southington, where she was secretary for the Town Welfare Department. Lea loved her work and friendships she made throughout her career. She was a talented knitter and generously gifted her beautiful creations of blankets, sweaters, mittens and handwarmers to many gracious recipients.

 Lea appreciated the simple things in life most, hosting an Easter egg hunt annually, including family, dear friends and neighbors, Jr. Women’s, Policeman's wives, Red Hat Club, Knitting groups, Aqua Turf Social Outings, Cousin Parties, Cross Country Trips with her in-laws, Lake Champlain trips, renowned “Porter Parties,” the Calendar House in later years and Christmas Eve Lobster dinners for the whole family. Her absolute favorite thing on this earth was spending time with Buddy, her high school sweetheart; she would never have left his side if it were within her power.  Bud helped Lea manage her brief illness in the most caring and beautiful way possible. 

 Lea and Bud celebrated their 65th anniversary at the AquaTurf on August 12, 2023, where she shined radiantly and brightly celebrating with family, friends, neighbors and loved ones. This is how she will be remembered by all. She shared one last dance to Unchained Melody with her beloved “Bud” and leaves behind one of the most wonderful legacies in us all that truly reflects her spirit.  She will be on our minds until our last day.  

Lea will make heaven a brighter place!

Lea’s family offers a special thanks to Father Terry Kristofak from Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center and the entire team from Hartford Health Care at Home, for their kindness and wonderful care.   

In lieu of flowers, donations in Lea’s memory may be made to Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center, 303 Tunxis Rd., West Hartford, CT 06107.

Calling hours will be held from 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 21, 2023 at the Plantsville Funeral Home, 975 S. Main St., Plantsville. A private burial will be held at the convenience of the family.  For online condolences and directions, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com.