Homage to Don Castiglione at Coxe & Graziano Ribbon-Cutting

At a long awaited ribbon cutting for Cox & Graziano Funeral Home at 134 Hamilton Ave, the Grazianos — Vincent Sr, Vincent Jr and Jennifer Graziano — welcomed about 50 guests on a brilliant sunny afternoon in Chickahominy.

Jennifer said that four generations of her family have provided comfort, support and care to families in their hour of need.

“It’s never been our job, but our calling,” she said. “We vow to bring that service to the people of Greenwich, and to do so in the finest facility possible. We hope we have lived up to that promise.”

Jennifer Graziano with friends Clive and Steve at the opening of Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home in Chickahominy on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2015

The Grazianos have operated funeral homes in Mamaroneck for many years. They purchased the facility at 134 Hamilton Ave a few years ago and recently renovated the building from top to bottom.

On Saturday, Ms. Graziano spoke directly to Carolyn Castiglione Hird, whose father Don Castigliano previously ran a funeral home at 134 Hamilton Ave for many years.

“I know full well the memories that live in your heart when you grow up in a funeral home and you watch in awe as your father singlehandedly takes care of entire community,” Jennifer said to Carolyn.

“We have bonded with similar upbringings over the years,” she continued. “Let me assure you, your father’s spirit lives on in these walls.”

Vincent Sr, Vincent Jr and Carolyn Castiglione Hird at the ribbon cutting of Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home on Sept. 19, 2015. Credit: Leslie Yager

“The funeral business is a very difficult profession. It requires compassion, dignity, dedication and professionalism,” said Mrs. Hird, adding that the Grazianos exemplify those qualities.

“Although his name is no longer on the building, his spirit lives on here,” she said, referring to her father, Don Castiglione.

Jennifer Graziano, an attorney who joined her father in his funeral home business, and more recently was joined by her brother Vincent, thanked several people for attending, including the Marcia O’Kane from the Chamber of Commerce, First Selectman Peter Tesei, State Rep Fred Camillo, State Rep Mike Bocchino and Greenwich Tax Collector Tod Ladonia.

“We open this door every day knowing we are part of a strong community,” Jennifer said. “We are humbled by the support you have shown.”

“We know you have a stellar reputation and will provide many decades of fine service to the families of our town,” said First Selectman Peter Tesei before cutting the ribbon outside the renovated building at 134 Hamilton Ave. “Thank you and welcome to Greenwich.”

First Selectman Peter Tesei cut the ribbon at Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home, flanked by Carolyn Castiglione Hird, State Rep. Fred Camillo, State Rep Mike Bocchino, Jennifer Graziano and Chamber of Commerce’s Marcia O’Kane. Credit: Leslie Yager