John Lawrence Epifanio

John Lawrence Epifanio, of St. Mary’s by the Sea in Bridgeport, CT passed away peacefully at 84 years old on Friday, January 12, 2024 in St. Vincent’s Hospital surrounded by family.

Born and raised in Stamford, CT, son of the late Lawrence Epifanio and Lee Epifanio. He attended Stamford public schools and played football and baseball. One of his favorite childhood memories was playing in the Little League World Series. After high school, John enlisted in the Army and attended Monterey Language School before serving with an Army Intelligence group stationed in Hokkaido, Japan from 1959 to 1962.

After the service, John graduated with a BA from Goddard College and MA from Fairfield University. John was a lifetime learner with endless curiosity, always reading & researching. He was a dedicated English & Humanities educator at the Center for Global Studies Magnet School in Norwalk, CT. He loved his yearly trips to Japan with his student groups. A sound mind & body was important to him with interests in tai chi, karate, running, and biking. He was known to his family and students as a reflective thinker, a balanced man with a witty sense of humor, and always a sharp dresser.  A Renaissance man with interests in Shakespeare, music, photography, foreign cars, cooking, and all things Japanese, especially Sumo and Noh theater.

John is survived by the love of his life of 55 years, Trish Epifanio.  The highlight of their early marriage was three years spent living in Tokyo, Japan where they worked, traveled, and began their enduring appreciation for the Japanese culture. Before putting down roots in Fairfield County, they spent time living in DC, Vermont, and California.

Survived by his two children Ana Groves and John Epifanio, he was a proud grandfather of five grandchildren; Jack, Will, Kate, Molly, and Zoe. He was predeceased by his beloved daughter Elizabeth Bianca Braden; and his greyhound Damien and yellow lab Casey. Additionally, he is survived by his sister Jayne O’Connor and numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held, Saturday, March 30th from 12 – 3 pm, at Fairfield Museum & History Center at 370 Beach Road, Fairfield, CT 06824.