Maureen A. Leonardo

On October 17, 2025, Maureen A. "Rusti" Leonardo of Hamden, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family. Maureen was born in New Haven on August 7, 1949. She was the daughter of the late Joseph and Alice Burke Shields. Prior to her retirement, she worked as a legal secretary. Maureen had a fighting Irish spirit and loved her family fiercely. She loved to spend summer vacations at her happy place - Sebago Lake in Maine - especially during her birthday week. It was a week spent with her family swimming in the lake, jet skiing, tubing, listening to Mob Hits on the CD player, and enjoying a well done Hummel hot dog and the occasional glass of Kendall Jackson chardonnay. Her love for Sebago Lake continues with her children and grandchildren. Maureen enjoyed decorating her log cabin home for every holiday from Valentine's Day to Christmas and all of the in-betweens. Maureen was married to the love of her life, Ernest C. Leonardo, Jr., for 32 years; She was the loving mother of Amy Leite (Rodney), Heidi Russo, and Robert Russo; and younger sister of Bernie Shields (Wendy). She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren Michael Girolomoni, Jr., Emily Girolomoni (James Oliverio), Trinity Leite and Maddox Leite; great granddaughters Violet, Charlotte, Hazel, Stella and Amelia Oliverio and Madelyn Girolomoni; niece Allyson Shields; nephews Jason Shields (Lisa); William Leonardo, Jr. (Jessica and the little guy) and Ernest A. Leonardo (Silvia); brother in law William Leonardo; cousin Lois Masselli (and family); and her loyal K9 companion Finn who was always by her side. Finn will continue to be by her side as he sadly passed away 3 days later. Maureen was predeceased by her brothers Joey Shields and Bobby Shields, and her in-laws Ernest C. and Mary Leonardo, Sr. May the road rise up to meet you, May the wind be always at your back, May the sunshine warm upon your face, May the rains fall soft upon your fields, And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of his hand. "Love, Hugs & Kisses" XOXOXO Funeral services are private under the direction of Sisk Brothers Funeral Home, 3105 Whitney Avenue, Hamden. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.siskbrothers.com

Maureen A. Leonardo

August 7, 1949 - October 17, 2025