Elisse Cosenza-Foley

Elisse Cosenza-Foley, 79, of Newington, CT, formerly of West Hartford, passed away peacefully after a brief illness. Born in Hartford to the late Abraham and Gloria Jacobs, Elisse grew up on Chatham Street, graduating from Weaver High School in 1964. Popular and charismatic, she married her childhood sweetheart, Michael “Mickey” Cosenza, at an early age. They had one son, Donald, who stood by his mother’s side throughout her life, always her protector and advocate.

Elisse began her career at Kelly Girls where she was the number one recruiter. Eventually transitioning to the insurance industry, she held various administrative positions at The Hartford, The Travelers and Metropolitan until her retirement. Later in life, she married Robert “Bob” Foley of New Britain. Rarely apart, they enjoyed life’s simpler things, taking road trips, attending sporting events, and spending time with family. Although she endured many setbacks, Elisse did so with grace, fortitude, and an unwavering belief in “picking herself up by her bootstraps.” Always at home on the dance floor or with a pair of knitting needles in hand, she fiercely loved those in her inner circle.

She leaves behind her son and daughter-in-law, Donald and Betsy Cosenza of Cheshire and her two grandchildren whom she adored, Olivia and Joseph Cosenza. Her beloved younger brother, Michael H. Jacobs, predeceased her. A graveside service will be held at Fairview Cemetery, 200 Whitman Avenue, West Hartford, on Monday, April 14 at 11:00 am. There will be no shiva.

Thank you to the team at Civita Nursing Home in Newington for providing such wonderful care. In lieu of flowers, a contribution in Elisse’s name can be made to the American Heart Association.