J Edward Ducci

  J. Edward Ducci, a lifelong resident of Torrington and Litchfield, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026, at the age of 98. Born in Torrington on January 12, 1928, he was the son of the late John L. Ducci and Catherine M. (Avampato) Ducci.

  Ed proudly served his country in the United States Army, enlisting in February 1946 and was stationed in Yokohama, Japan, where he worked as a radio operator during World War II-era. He received the World War II Victory Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal – Japan. After his military service, he pursued his passion for electronics and communications, attending radio school in New York City and earning his television and radio license.

  He went on to found and operate Torrington TV Center for more than four decades. A pioneer in his field, Ed was the first in Torrington to sell and repair televisions and home appliances. He built a reputation for expertise, honesty, and dependable service, earning the trust and loyalty of generations of customers. He was also an active member of the community, belonging to the Torrington Country Club, the Elks, and the Knights of Columbus, where he built lasting friendships.

  Ed treasured time spent with his family. He especially cherished the holidays with the whole family together. Golf was one of Ed’s greatest passions. He was an exceptional golfer and was proud to have won the Torrington Country Club Golf Championship. Many of his happiest hours were spent on the golf course. Also, as a dedicated amateur (ham) radio enthusiast, Ed connected with people around the world using Morse code during the 1950s throughout the 1960s. In addition to his many interests, he also enjoyed investing, reading, playing cards, and spending time with his friends.

  He was predeceased by his brother, John Ducci; two grandchildren; and his former wife, Lucille (Raynor) Leifert. Ed is survived by his sister, Shirley Kaczmarczyk of Torrington; his daughters, Susan Petrovits and her husband, Larry, of Monroe, Connecticut, Sharon Ducci of Torrington, and Debbie Pavlik and her husband, Mark, of Torrington; and his son, Jay Ducci of Reno, Nevada. He also leaves behind 9 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, several great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed.

  A private Christian burial will be held at St. Francis Cemetery in Torrington. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ed’s memory to Torrington Meals on Wheels or the United Way of Torrington.www.phalenfuneral.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of J Edward Ducci, please visit our floral store.