In Memory of Jodi: A Nurse and Teacher

Hello, my name is Edward Thomas, but you may know me as “Little Ed.” It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of my mother, Jodi Thomas (formerly DeLeo), who left us after a courageous battle with liver disease. I held her hand as she took her final breath, and alongside her was her fiancé, Joe Lacerenza, who was by her side through her entire sickness, sunrise to sundown. Jodi was an incredible woman—loving, strong, and always putting others before herself. She worked as an ER nurse at Waterbury Hospital and taught at multiple colleges throughout the state of Connecticut. And boy, could she cook. I’m sure everyone is going to miss seeing her post her dishes on Facebook; I know I’m going to miss eating them.

Unfortunately, now, we find ourselves in a difficult position as we prepare to say our final goodbyes and fulfill her last wishes.

The costs of a funeral and the arrangements she had hoped for are more than we can manage at this time, and we are reaching out for help. Your support will go directly toward covering funeral expenses, including urn, burial, services, as well as ensuring we can honor the personal wishes she left for her final resting place.

Any donation, no matter how small, will be deeply appreciated. If you're unable to contribute financially, please consider sharing this page with others who might be willing to help. We truly appreciate the love and support from our friends, family, and community during this incredibly difficult time. Per my mom’s wishes, if there are any additional funds  after all expenses, we will be making a donation to Watertown Animal Hospital.

Calling hours will be held at Chase Parkway Memorial (formerly Albini’s Funeral Home) in Waterbury, Connecticut on Saturday, February 1, 2025 starting at 10am and concluding at 12:30p. 

Flower arrangements can be sent to Chase Parkway Memorial.

Thank you for helping us give my mother the farewell she truly deserves.

With gratitude,

Edward Thomas