Dawn (Dione) Caselli, age 86, of Southbury, formerly of Stratford, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 15, 2025, surrounded by the love of family. Born on July 8, 1939, she was the daughter of the late Louise Lupi and Andrew Lupi.

A natural caregiver, Dawn enjoyed a career as a nurse at Ella Grasso Center in Stratford. She volunteered for the Stratford EMS for many years. More recently, Dawn was residing at River Glen in Southbury where she made many wonderful friendships and dedicated her time advocating for the residents as the President of the residential community.

Dawn's passion for creating a loving home was evident in every decorated corner of her residence. This sanctuary of love only flourished with time, as the laughter of grandchildren and great-grandchildren filled its rooms.

A lover of the coast, Dawn found serenity on the beaches of Dennisport. Her family's annual trips were among her most treasured moments where she enjoyed starfish walks with her granddaughters, games of miniature golf and shopping.

Alongside her husband, she enjoyed rooting for the Yankee's. An avid Tinkerbell fan, Disney was a magical spot for her, even celebrating her 50th wedding anniversary there.

The Holidays were a time of exuberance and celebration for Dawn, with Christmas holding a particularly dear spot in her heart. Her home became a spectacle of festivity, earning the distinction of "best decorated home" on several occasions. Her full-sized Santa sleigh was not just a decoration but a symbol of the magic and generosity that defined her.

Among her greatest joys was the time spent with her great-granddaughter, Olive Mae. These precious moments were filled with the simple pleasures that come from the pure connection between generations.

Dawn is survived by her loving son, Joseph Caselli and his wife, Annette of Woodbury; her daughter, Sherri Kelley and her husband, Paul; her grandchildren, Abigail (Steven Wong) Caselli of Vernon and Alexandra (Joseph Hudeck) Caselli of Pittsburgh, Alesha (Jason) Hubball, and Devan, Trenten, and Brennen Kelley; her great granddaughters, Olive Mae, Raya and Ellie; and her bonus great grandchildren, Adeline, Annabelle, Izzy and Miles. Also surviving is her brother, Reed Dione, sister, Dale Christman.

Dawn was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, Joseph J. Caselli; her daughter, Sherri Caselli.

Relatives and friends are invited to join the family for visitation on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, from 5 -7 pm at Munson-Lovetere Funeral Home, 2 School Street, Woodbury, CT 06798. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 11:00 am at Sacred Heart Church, 910 Main Street S, Southbury, CT 06488. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family.

Dawn's family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at River Glen Nursing Home for their support, friendship and care.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in honor of Dawn may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

To leave online condolences please visit www.munsonloveterefuneralhome.com