Santa Cardillo, age 88, of Naugatuck, formerly of Watertown, passed away peacefully, September 22, 2026, at the Lutheran Home of Southbury. She was the loving widow of Michael J. Cardillo.
Santa was born September 2, 1938, in Catania, Italy, a daughter of the late Sebastiano and Maria (Leotta) Campagna. She immigrated to the United States in 1958. Prior to her retirement, Santa had worked as a subcontracting seamstress for the former Giovanna Dress Shop and Paparazzi Boutique in Watertown also she was also affiliated with the former JoAnn’s Bridal Shop. She was an avid gardener who loved sewing but found her greatest joy being surrounded by her family, especially her grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by those who were blessed to know and love her.
She leaves her daughter Mary Carbone–McDougall and her husband Rick of Oakville, Nancy Cardillo of Naugatuck, two grandchildren, Gina and Michael Carbone, her brother, Francesco Campagna of Waterbury a sister, Anna Lombardi of Hernando, FL. She was predeceased by a brother, Jack Campagna, and a sister, Rosaria Gelinas, her brother-in-law Angelo Lombardi.
The Cardillo family would like to thank the staff at the Lutheran home of Southbury, especially Sabita, Jeannette, Kelly, and Dr. Greddy for the care, support and love shown to Santa and her family during her stay.
Arrangements: A funeral will be held Friday, September 25, 2026, 9:00 AM from Chase Parkway Memorial, The Albini Family Funeral Home, 430 Chase Parkway, Waterbury, to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church to celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Watertown. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, September 24 from 6 to 8 PM at Chase Parkway Memorial