The Southington, Connecticut community is mourning the loss of Leigh Newton Pechillo, who passed to our Lord on March 25, 2026, at the age of 56. Leigh was a devoted mother, passionate advocate for women’s heart health, and a beloved friend to all who knew her. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others made her a remarkable presence in the community, leaving an enduring legacy of love, service, and compassion.
Leigh (Newton) Pechillo was predeceased by her father, Robert Newton, and is survived by her loving children, Alexandra (Allie) and Robert (Robby) Pechillo of Southington, her mother, Linda Newton (Rio) of New Britain, and her lifelong best friend, Danielle Gentry of Denver, Colorado. Her family and friends remember her as a deeply caring and supportive person whose generosity and enthusiasm for life touched everyone she met.
Professionally, Leigh dedicated much of her life to Connecticut Children’s Foundation, where she worked as the Assistant Manager for Donor Relations and the Patient Ambassador Program. In this role, she found immense satisfaction in working with children and supporting the foundation’s mission. Her kindness and personal investment in the lives of the children she served left a lasting impact on countless families, reflecting her commitment to service and her belief in the power of community.
Leigh was also passionate about the dramatic arts. In her 20s, she toured as a cast member of Up With People, an international non-profit organization promoting global connection through music, community service, and host-family programs. She formed lifelong friendships through this work and continued to support the organization throughout her life, attending reunions and maintaining close relationships with fellow alumni. Her love for live theater was passed on to her children, creating cherished family memories centered on performance, creativity, and cultural enrichment.
A tireless advocate for heart health, Leigh dedicated herself to raising awareness and funds for research, particularly concerning women’s cardiovascular health. Motivated by the effects of heart disease on her family and herself, she devoted countless hours to volunteer work, legislative advocacy, and supporting initiatives that would improve outcomes for others. Her commitment to heart health advocacy was a hallmark of her life, inspiring those around her to care for their own well-being and that of their communities.
Above all, Leigh was a devoted mother. She took immense pride in the achievements and character of Allie and Robby, guiding them with love, encouragement, and unwavering support. Her family remembers her as a nurturing, caring, and fiercely protective parent whose heart was fully invested in the lives of her children.
Leigh Newton Pechillo’s funeral will be held on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, with a visitation at DellaVecchia Funeral Home from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. The Mass of Christian Burial will begin at St. Dominic Church in Southington at 11:00 a.m., with interment following at Holy Cross Cemetery in Glastonbury, Connecticut. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Leigh’s name to the Connecticut Children’s Foundation, supporting the causes she cherished and the children she loved so dearly. Contributions may be mailed to PO Box 412901, Boston, MA 02241-2901 or submitted online through the foundation’s website.
Leigh’s legacy will live on through her advocacy, her family, and the countless lives she touched with her kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit, joy, and love will continue to inspire her family, friends, and the community for years to come.