Cecelia Petrucelli

Cecile "Ceil" Petrucelli, 73, passed away on July 26, 2024. Born on June 25, 1951, she was the oldest of six children born to Mario and Alice (Lucia) Petrucelli. She was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend.

Ceil's passion for art and literature was evident from her youth and became a common thread that she wove purposefully into her daily activities over the years. She graduated Platt High School in '69 and went on to pursue a degree in graphic arts from the Atlanta School of Design.

Ceil's professional journey included several years at Peterson's Publishing in New York City where she refined her editorial and managerial expertise. Residing in Trenton, NJ at the time, Ceil's two-bedroom condo showcased her exceptional talent in interior design. From the welcoming entryway with a gilded mirror to the cozy den with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves beautifully curated with books, family pictures, and ornamental treasures, every room could have rivaled a depiction in Better Homes and Gardens magazine.

Although Ceil thrived in the city, she had a soft spot in her heart for Vermont's pastoral landscapes and vibrant autumn colors. When traveling to visit her family, she loved to take the "scenic" route. To her young nieces and nephews, "scenic" became synonymous with "long," but it was clear that these drives and her daily walks were a testament to her connection with nature and brought her immense peace.

In the early nineties Ceil landed a job with Storey Communications and had the opportunity to fulfill her dream of moving to Vermont. She settled in the Bennington area and dedicated the next three decades to fostering community appreciation for art and literature. Her career path led her to Jay's Art Shop & Frame Gallery, the Bennington House of Tile, and Ethan Allen. In every position she held, her love of creative design was reflected in her work.

In her spare time, Ceil became an active board member, volunteer, and consultant for several local non-profit and cultural organizations including the Bennington Museum, the Vermont Arts Exchange, and the Second Chance Animal Shelter. She also adopted numerous cats and dogs and gave them a happy, loving home.

Spending time with her extended family was a highlight for Ceil. She celebrated her Italian heritage, shared holiday traditions and delicious foods, and laughed as she reminisced and regaled us with tales of old memories. Ceil also shared her favorite pastimes, showing us how to make decorative boxes, grapevine wreaths, holiday gifts, and Zentangle designs. She made bouquets for a niece's wedding, ornaments, curtains, pillows, gift boxes, and cards for every occasion. The pieces she created will serve as lasting reminders of the love she shared.

Ceil is predeceased by her sister, Patricia, her brother, John, and their parents. She is survived by sisters Annette, Mary-Alice (and brother-in-law Craig), and Lynn, as well as her nieces and nephews and their families.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ceil's memory to the Bennington Museum and/or the Second Chance Animal Shelter.

A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor at the Bennington Museum (Paresky Wing) 75 Main St, Bennington, VT on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 1:00 pm. Light refreshments to follow.