Obituaries

John Joseph “Sonny” Madden III, 82, of Waterford entered eternal life December 6, 2023, in the company of his loving family. He was born in New London to the late John J. Madden Jr. and Anna (Devona) Madden. He was born in New London and aKended St. Mary’s Catholic school and graduated from New London High school in 1959. Excelling in basketball he was known as Jumping Johnny Madden and received several college scholarships. He aKended Mississippi Southern and Mitchell College before earning his BA from Central ConnecVcut State University and his master’s degree from ConnecVcut College. During his college years he worked at Pfizer in Groton and was a member of the NaVonal Guard. John began his teaching career at Saint Bernards High School teaching special educaVon and finished his 37-year career at Wheeler High School in North Stonington as an Industrial Arts teacher. John also worked as an independent contractor when he was not teaching. He was a communicant of Saint Joseph’s Church in New London. John was a member and past president of the Italian DramaVc Club and a member of the New London Lodge of Elk’s #360. He was inducted into the Elk’s Hall of Fame and the Mitchell College Hall of Fame for basketball. He is survived by his beloved wife, the former Lorraine (Gallo) Vocalina, a widow, and children Anthony J. Vocalina III and wife Malissa, Michael V. Vocalina and his wife Jeanmarie, and Lisa M. Peabody and her husband David. Grandchildren include Alexa Vocalina, Anthony J. Vocalina IV, Maxwell Peabody, Logan Peabody, Grace Vocalina and Tess Vocalina. Siblings Lucille Delmonte and Adrianne Remmert, Brother-in-law Joseph Gallo, and his wife Connie. A mass Friday December 15th at 11 A.M. at Saint Joseph’s Church 142 Montauk Avenue, New London, ConnecVcut. Military honors to follow at the church. Interment is private.

The family would like to extend their sincere graVtude for all the love and support given to John. We are forever grateful, God bless.

The ImpelliKeri-Malia Funeral Home 84 Montauk Avenue New London is entrusted with his care.