We mourn the loss of Domenica Mary Sacco Sarica, lovingly known as Dee, Dolly, and Grandma Dolly, who passed away on November 19, 2024, at the age of 95 in Riverside, Connecticut. Dolly’s life was a testament to her boundless love for her family and her appreciation for life’s simple joys, shared with cherished friends and loved ones.
Dolly was born in Stamford, Connecticut, to Anthony J. and Angela Sacco. She attended Stamford public schools and achieved a significant milestone by earning her GED at the age of 50. It was at Conde Nast where she met her beloved husband, John A. Sarica, with whom she shared a deep love and many joyful moments dancing to their favorite tunes, including “Stardust Memories.” Together, they nurtured a loving family, including their children John Jr. (Anna Vartuli), Roseann Benedict (Scott), and Angela Carino (Peter).
After John’s retirement from the Greenwich Police Department, Dolly and John embarked on a successful business venture, founding A-1 Limousine, which served the tri-state area for over two decades. In their later years, they enjoyed time in Gulfport, Florida, but Dolly’s heart remained with her family. She treasured moments with her sisters Mary Strate (who predeceased her), Anna Ferraro, Joan Rinaldi, and Gerry Agneto, and her grandchildren Elizabeth Carino ( Nick Hann) , Michelle Geriak ( Robbie) , Stephen Sarica, Patrick Carino ( Amanda) , Tyler Benedict, Alex Benedict, and Jonathan Benedict. The newest addition to her family, her great-grandsons, Jackson and Cameron Geriak and her great-granddaughters, Charlie Carino and Gianna Hann, brought her immense joy. Dolly also had a very special place in heart for her loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Dolly’s home was a sanctuary of Italian traditions, from festive Christmas coin tosses to lively family picnics, card games, and music, often featuring her beloved mandolin. Her culinary talents were legendary, with her home filled with the enticing aromas of chicken cutlets, fried meatballs, cherry cheesecake, grandma’s chiffon cake, homemade cavatelli, rucola alla Barese, Mexican hat cookies, and her famous multi-layer coconut cake.
A passionate golfer, Dolly enjoyed playing at Tamarack Country Club and The Griff. In 1979, she was the Tamarack 9 holers club champion. Dolly was also on the Blowfish town softball team at 75 years old. She most recently was very active in Stamford Seniors line dancers and Social Seniors at St. Catherines.
As we bid farewell to Dolly Sarica, we celebrate the life of a woman whose kindness and love touched everyone she met. Her legacy of devotion to her family and the beautiful life she led will be cherished forever. Dolly’s memory will remain in our hearts, a shining light that continues to inspire us all.
A special thank you to The River House Adult Day Care for all the love and care they gave to Dolly, as well as Theresa Wojnoski from RVNA Health who helped her through her final days.
In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to River House Adult Day Care Center or The Greenwich Police Silver Shield.