She was born May 23,1938 in Buffalo, NY the daughter of Christine and Philip DiGregorio, who immigrated to the United States from Sicily in 1923. She worked as an administrative assistant for General Electric at the corporate offices in New York City and Fairfield for many years.
The Ridgefield Historical Society mourns the passing on Oct. 14 of Grace P. Clewell, a former board member and longtime volunteer. She devoted many hours to the work of recording the more than 10,000 items in the historical society’s collection. She also compiled and wrote the historical society newsletter. Always a smiling presence at the Scott House headquarters, Ms. Clewell was 88; she was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Douglas B. Clewell.
A 54-year resident, Mrs. Clewell was active in and supported the Graveyard Committee, the Historical Society, Founders Hall, The Ridgefield Woman’s Club, the American Legion, and also enjoyed many musical events. She was a dedicated member of Jesse Lee Memorial United Methodist Church, and after Sunday services, she always looked forward to breakfast with the “Older than Dirt Gang,” which included her friend Kay Ables, Ridgefield’s second Town Historian, who had recruited her for the historical society.
She is survived by her nephew and niece and their children. She is also survived by two devoted friends, Debbie Perry and Melody Fritz.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday Nov 14, at 10 a.m. at Jesse Lee Memorial United Methodist Church, 207 Main Street, Ridgefield. After the service, she will be interred with her husband in the columbarium at the church. Attendees are welcome to participate in the interment ceremony, which will be followed by a reception at the Carriage House on the church grounds. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Jesse Lee Church, 207 Main Street, Ridgefield, CT 06877 or the charity of your choice.
