Esther G. DaRos

Esther (Goodell) DaRos, a loving mother, grandmother, and proud lifelong resident of Stafford, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the age of 94. She was the beloved wife of the late Lelio “Ronnie” DaRos for 64 years. Together, they built a lifetime of memories in the town they cherished. Born at home in Stafford to Chester R. and Edna Ruby (Holmes) Goodell, Esther grew up surrounded by family, love, and the strong values that shaped her long and meaningful life. A graduate of Stafford High School, she worked for many years, retiring as a bookkeeper for Home Pride Provisions. Esther was deeply woven into the fabric of her community. She willingly gave her time to organizations dear to her heart-the Stafford Historical Society, Staffordville Cemetery Association, Stafford Baptist Church, and for fifteen years, she brought meals and companionship to neighbors through Meals on Wheels. Her joy for life was infectious. Esther loved duck pin bowling, cheered on the New York Yankees, and never missed a chance to root for UCONN Women’s basketball. But more than anything, Esther treasured her family. Her home was a hub for holidays, birthdays, and everyday visits-the door always open and laughter always present. She delighted in hosting gatherings, preparing delicious food, and arranging flowers to make sure everyone felt welcome and loved. Esther leaves behind her devoted children: Kevin DaRos and his wife Linda; Lorin DaRos and his wife Anne; Doreen Moulton and her husband Leslie; and Gail Metsack and her husband Stephen. She was a cherished grandmother to Andy DaRos and his wife Amy; Laura DaRos; Brian DaRos and his wife Elizabeth; Tyler Metsack and his girlfriend Kristi Francini; and Cameron Metsack. She was a proud great-grandmother to Kyle DaRos; and Evan and Emilie DaRos. She will be deeply missed by her sister and brother-in-law, Diane and Richard Whitehouse, as well as many treasured nieces and nephews, and dear friend Claire Heck. Esther was predeceased by her siblings, Pearl Szych, Gordon and Earl Goodell, and Beverly Ference. Family and friends will gather to celebrate Esther’s life on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. at Introvigne Funeral Home, 51 East Main Street, Stafford Springs. Burial will follow at Staffordville Cemetery. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, June 19, 2025, from 4:00-7:00 P.M. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, Esther’s family requests donations in her memory to the Ronnie and Esther DaRos Fund (Citizens’ Scholarship Foundation of Stafford, P.O. Box 25, Stafford Springs, CT 06076), Staffordville Cemetery Association (c/o Diane Fiore, P.O. Box 196B, Staffordville, CT 06077), or a charity of your choice. To share a memory or leave a message of condolence, please visit: www.introvignefuneralhome.com