Millbury, Massachusetts - Anna Cristello, 97, formerly of Southbury, CT, passed away on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at her son’s home in Point Roberts, WA. She was the wife of the late William Cristello, who passed away in 2011.

Anna, or Nina as she was known to family and friends, was born December 4, 1928, in Comiziano, Italy, the daughter of the late Paul and Concetta (Vecchione) Dell'Anno. Nina was a self-made woman whose life reflected determination, talent, and an unwavering desire to better herself. She came to the United States and began her career as a seamstress at Leila Dress Company in Waterbury, Connecticut. In the 1950s, driven by her passion for fashion and desire to learn, she studied fashion design at the Traphagen School of Fashion in New York City. She later returned to Leila Dress Company, where she worked alongside her sisters, Mary Napolitano and Antoinetta Massaro. Her entrepreneurial spirit eventually led her to establish and own her own clothing manufacturing company in Derby, Connecticut. Nina's journey from immigrant seamstress to business owner was a testament to her hard work, independence, and determination to create a better life. Her accomplishments and the example she set for her family remain an enduring part of her legacy.

Nina leaves behind her beloved son, Gabriel Cristello, and his husband, Steven Juliver, of Victoria, BC, Canada; her daughter, MaryAnn DeMaria, and her husband, William DeMaria, of Millbury, MA; her grandson, Will DeMaria, and his wife, Nisha Divan; and her great-grandson, Jai DeMaria, with whom she was fortunate to spend much cherished time. She also leaves her sister, Antoinetta Massaro, of Waterbury, CT. She treasured her family deeply, and the time she shared with her children, grandchildren, and especially her great-grandson, Jai, brought her great joy. Her love and devotion to her family will be remembered and cherished always.

Nina also had a remarkable ability to connect with people wherever life took her. She made many dear friends in West Walk, Connecticut, as well as in Canada, and cherished the friendships she formed throughout her life. Her warmth, genuine interest in others, and welcoming nature drew people to her. She will be fondly remembered by the many friends whose lives she touched and who became an important part of her life.

Arrangements – A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 11 am at St. James Cemetery, Cross St., Naugatuck. The Buckmiller Ford Mengacci Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or by clicking HERE.