Obituary: Stephanie I. Pazienza, M.D., 57

Stephanie I. Pazienza, M.D., of Norwich, Conn., passed away January 6, in her home. Only 57 years old, with much more still to give this world, she is survived by her mother, Hildegard Pazienza (Brandner) of East Greenwich, siblings Martin L. Pazienza, of North Kingstown, Robert R. Pazienza of Charlestown, and Ingrid E. Campbell and her husband Bruce, of Bedford, N.H. 

She is also survived by nieces and nephew Hayley Caristia, Cara Campbell, and Bryce Campbell, and her beloved canine companion, Freddie. She was predeceased by her father, Louis M. Pazienza, just over a year ago, whom she missed dearly. 

Born in Munich, Germany, Stephanie spent her childhood years in Rhode Island and graduated from Providence College in 1978. She went on to medical school at the University of Vermont, graduating in 1982. After completing her internship and residency in diagnostic radiology at Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Wash., and fellowship at New England Deaconess Hospital, Boston, Mass., she settled into hospital-based private practice in Willimantic, Conn. 

Always an over-achiever, Stephanie retired early from a successful medical career and spent the last dozen years traveling the world and enjoying life. Splitting her time between Sarasota, Fla., and Norwich, Conn., she was able to soak up the warm weather and sunshine year round, which she particularly loved. 

Music, theater, reading, movies, attending church services, enjoying the beach, and walking her beloved dogs that she had over the years were just some of her many interests, always sharing these times with her family and friends regardless of which geographic area she happen to be living in during the year. Above all else, however, she was a truly devoted daughter, loving sister, and caring aunt.

Stephanie was buried in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston, R.I., following a private family funeral. A memorial service celebrating her life will be held in eastern Connecticut at a later date. Those who would wish to honor her life may consider donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or to the no-kill animal shelter of their choice.

Visit the online condolence page at the Hill Funeral Home website here.