Jeanine Iris (Forestandi) Martino

Jeanine Iris (Forestandi) Martino, 91, of Plainville, passed away peacefully at home on July 1, after living a long and happy life—by her own definition.

She was the love of her husband’s life, the late Joseph Martino, with whom she shared 64 wonderful years. Jeanine was also the most loving, caring, and patient mom that three crazy boys could have asked for while growing up in the ’60s and ’70s.

A lifelong resident of New Britain and Plainville, Jeanine retired from the Plainville Public Library, where she found joy and a deep sense of community. Whenever we asked, “Mom, how do you know that person?” her answer was always, “From the library.”

She also volunteered at the Plainville Senior Center, where she made new friends and reconnected with old ones.

An avid reader, Jeanine enjoyed countless books throughout her life—a passion she passed on to her granddaughters. She also loved playing the piano, painting, gardening, and, most of all, visiting and chatting with friends and family.

Jeanine graduated from New Britain High School in 1952 and earned a degree in music from Green Mountain College. Later in life, she shared her love of music by teaching piano to many children in the Plainville community.

She cherished watching her grandchildren grow and always felt their love during visits. She delighted in being surrounded by her children and grandchildren, often attending or participating in their school events. She frequently expressed how fortunate she felt to have her family by her side throughout the years.

Jeanine is survived by her three sons and their wives: David and Lisa Martino of Farmington, Paul and Angie Martino of Elmhurst, IL, and John and Christine Martino of Berlin. She also leaves behind seven beloved grandchildren: Christopher and Alana Martino, Nicholas and Valerie Martino, Olivia and Tim Galloway, Alexandra Martino, Jack Martino, Francesca Martino, and William Martino, as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her brother, Dr. Robert Forestandi; her parents, Nicholas and Angelina Forestandi; and her dear aunt, Lucia Cesarini.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to her devoted caregivers, Sonia Reid and Jennifer Williams, who treated her with kindness, compassion and commitment to her care. Special thanks also to the wonderful team at Arbor Rose for their kindness and care. Mom loved living there and cherished the friendships she made with residents and staff. And of course, she loved her daily dessert—ice cream!

We will always remember Mom’s positive spirit. When asked how she was doing, she’d often say, “I got up today, and everything works—so I’m happy.”

In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting the Alzheimer’s Association at http://www.alz.org, or by making a donation in Jeanine’s memory to the Resident Activities Fund at Arbor Rose, 975 Corbin Avenue, New Britain, CT 06052.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, July 8, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, July 9, at 11:00 a.m. meeting directly at Our Lady of Knock Parish- St. Patrick Church, 110 Main St Farmington.  For online expressions of sympathy, please visit http://www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com

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