Lucien Vito Zeffiro, age 76, of Stratford, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, after a lengthy illness. He was born on March 15, 1949, to the late Anthony and Ann (Cagganello) Zeffiro. Lucien was a proud graduate of Stratford High School, Class of 1967, and continued his education at Fairfield University, where he graduated in 1971 on a Headmaster’s Scholarship.

Lucien had a passion for athletics. As a young boy, he played baseball for the Stratford Original Little League. He also began collecting baseball cards, a hobby that he enjoyed throughout his life. During high school, Lucien discovered what became a lifelong passion - football. In his Senior year at Stratford High, Lucien earned the Outstanding Lineman of the Year Award. Lucien later dedicated decades to coaching football at Stratford High School, Bunnell High School, and finally at Sheehan High School in Wallingford, inspiring countless young athletes with his knowledge of the game, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to teamwork and disciplined practice.

In addition to his love of athletics, Lucien was an exceptional educator. He taught mathematics at Stratford High School for over forty years, and he also served as an adjunct instructor at Quinnipiac University. Although Lucien generally was a man of few words, he was highly respected by both his colleagues and students for his patience, intellect, and dedication to helping others succeed. In recognition of his outstanding service both in the classroom and on the field, Lucien was honored with the Distinguished Service Award from the Stratford High Athletic Association. Outside of school and the sidelines, Lucien found joy in the simple routines of everyday life, especially the many walks he took over the years with his beloved dog, Fritz.

Above all, Lucien cherished his family. He was a devoted father and grandfather. He is survived by his four children: Amanda Roberts (Nathan) and their sons Franco, Marley, and Kenzi; Tricia Affinito (Steve) and granddaughter Sofia; Thomas Zeffiro (Sharon); and the apple of his eye, Lily Zeffiro. He is also survived by his loving sisters Andrea Zeffiro and Lynnette Baroni (Bob) and their children, Danielle Russell (Brett) and Rob and their grandchildren Callie and Ella Russell, Cam and Molly Baroni, and Lucien’s Godson, Max Baroni.

Ultimately, Lucien will be remembered for his integrity, his passion for teaching and coaching, and the love he shared with his family. His legacy will live on in the lives of those he taught, coached, and loved. Well done, Coach. Rest peacefully.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 4-7 p.m. at the Adzima Funeral Home, 50 Paradise Green Place, Stratford, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, February 12th at 9:30 a.m. meeting directly at St. Mark Church, 500 Wigwam Lane, Stratford, Burial will follow in St. John’s Cemetery, Stratford, CT. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Stratford High School scholarship fund in memory of Lucien Zeffiro.