Jean Pender Martino, 74, of South Windsor passed away on Thursday, May 17, 2018 surrounded by her loving family. Born in Passaic, New Jersey to Mildred and Alexander Pender, she was raised in Nutley, New Jersey. Jean graduated from Nutley High School and attended Ramapo College where she studied early childhood education.

After staying home with her children, Jean reentered the work force by joining Veeder-Root in the marketing department. Jean served as marketing assistant until her retirement.

Jean will be remembered fondly as the consummate hostess filling her home with warmth and laughter. Known for her Christmas cookie baking marathons, her home-baked, custom-decorated birthday cakes and elaborate holiday feasts, Jean warmly welcomed friends and relatives into her home to celebrate. In addition to her culinary skills, Jean was also talented at crocheting. The afghans she crocheted for each of her grandchildren will be treasured keepsakes.

Jean was happiest surrounded by her family. Whether a sporting event, school concert or graduation, “Granny” could be counted on to be in attendance.

Predeceased by her husband, Joseph Martino and her step-son, Michael Martino. Jean will be deeply missed by her four children and seven grandchildren: Michael and Kathleen Zilahy and their children Mia and Alexandra of Glastonbury, CT; Nancy and Robert Carter and their children Lindsay and John of South Windsor, CT; John Pender of Ellington, CT; and Alexander and Christine Pender and their children Collin, Olivia, and Lucas of Vernon, CT, as well as her four step-children; Robert Martino of Glastonbury, CT, Richard Martino of Plantation, Florida, Lisa LaPoint of Berlin, CT and Lora Martino of Wethersfield, CT. Jean also leaves her dear cousins, Carole Piotrowski of West Palm Beach, FL, Richard Iaroli of Sussex, NJ, and Barbara Iaroli of Little Egg Harbor, NJ.

Friends may call at the Burke-Fortin Funeral home, 76 Prospect Street, Rockville, CT on Thursday, May 31 from 4-7 PM. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Bernard Church, 25 St. Bernard’s Terrace, Rockville, CT on Friday, June 1 at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Hillside Cemetery in East Hartford, CT. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jean’s name may be made to the Hospice/Oncology department at St. Francis Hospital. For online condolences please visit: www.pietrasfuneralhome.com