Audrey French, 95, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026, in The Villages, FL, with her loving family by her side. Formerly of East Haven, CT, Pompano Beach, FL, and The Villages, FL, Audrey lived a long and beautiful life, filled with family, friendship, and joy.
Audrey was born on October 1, 1930, in Guilford, CT, the daughter of the late Ernest and Ethel (LeVasseur) Baruffa. She was predeceased by her devoted husband of 58 years, James French Sr. Together, they raised their children, Debra and James Jr., in East Haven before retiring to Pompano Beach, where they enjoyed the beach, traveling, time with friends, and gatherings by the pool, watching boats pass along the Intracoastal.
Audrey is survived by her daughter, Debra French (Mike Carasone) of New Haven, CT; and her son, James (Barbara) French Jr. of The Villages, FL. She leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Stephanie (Mike) Nobile, Michele (Ron) Anthony, David (Lauren) French, Douglas (Crystal) French, and Steven (Geena) French; as well as great-grandchildren, Bryanna, Hailey, Rachel, Alyssa, Ella, Leo, Skylar, and Zoey.
She was predeceased by her half-sister, Cathryn Tucker; and half-brothers, Leander and Norman Lull. She is also survived by her niece, Kathleen (Rick) Fiorentino.
Audrey grew up in East Haven and graduated from East Haven High School in 1948. She worked at Metcalf’s Drug Store and United Illuminating before retiring from SNET in 1993, as a Maintenance Administrator. Audrey was a longtime member of the Branford Elks Lodge #1939. She cherished time with her family, enjoyed playing golf and, in her later years in The Villages, proudly earned the nickname “the bocce queen” at age 93.
There will be no calling hours. All are welcome to meet and attend a graveside service on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 11:30 AM in East Lawn Cemetery, 58 River Street, East Haven, CT.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Connecticut Hospice 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT 06405, or the American Lung Association, 45 Ash St., East Hartford, CT 06108, in memory of Audrey French.