Alberta Louise Gagliardi passed away on Friday January 21, 2022 with family members by her side at the VNA Hospice House in Vero Beach, Florida.

Alberta was born in New Haven Connecticut to Albert and Betty Branchini. After graduating from Sacred Heart Academy, she met the love of her life and married Ralph Anthony Gagliardi on August 4, 1962. In 1978 Ralph and Alberta moved to Vero Beach with their four children. Upon settling in Vero Beach they started and still own Beachland Heating and Air Conditioning.

Alberta was a homemaker to her four children: Robert Gagliardi 57 (Sara), Jill Gagliardi-Smith 54 (Joseph), Gina Gagliardi-DeFiore 52 (Robert), and Mark Gagliardi 48 (Penny). Her grandchildren are: Jarrod Smith, Jenna Smith, Brianna DeFiore, Bryan DeFiore and Masen Gagliardi. Ralph and Alberta also have their beloved Yorkie companion GiGi(#3). Alberta is survived by her husband Ralph, who spent his life taking care of her in their home. Alberta’s elder sister Marie Garcia-Abrines still resides in New Haven, CT. Alberta is preceded in death by her father Albert Branchini and mother Betty Branchini (DiLorenzo) both from Connecticut.

Alberta’s favorite thing to do was to go to garage sales on Saturday mornings with her friends and had many joyous occasions. She acquired many sentimental pieces and some additional junk. Alberta was also a huge fan of Elvis and enjoyed all of his music and movies. Another favorite was watching The Carol Burnett Show which she would sing the closing song: “I’m So Glad We Had This Time Together”. Words like courageous, strong, and resilient come to mind when we hear Alberta’s name.

Alberta was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis shortly before moving down to Florida and fought a very difficult battle for many years. We would also like to recognize Sally Alaimo and Betty Schouenborg for their excellent home care of Alberta. Without their help during the day taking care of Mom, she would have not have lived such a beautiful life at home.

A private Celebration of Life to honor Alberta will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, we request donations be made to the VNA Hospice House of Vero Beach. Dr. Venazio and his staff were so wonderful to all of us during this time.

Arrangements by Millennium Cremation Service.