The Westport Local Press

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Hazel Saviano, 94, Died; Born on Roseville Road, Beloved School Bus Driver

Obituary 

Hazel Saviano, 94, of Westport passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, October 14, 2021.

Hazel was born at her childhood home on April 17, 1927. The Roseville Road residence, built in 1860, still stands today. Hazel was the daughter of the late Martha Mills and George Lewis Sr.

With roots in Westport stretching back to the mid-1800's, Hazel could recall a time when trolley cars still traversed Westport streets. With a career as a school bus driver for the town of Westport, she retired in 2003 at the age of 76, having safely delivered Westport children to and from school for over 35 years.

Her heart was big and her smile was infectious. All who knew her, loved and adored her. She was a devoted wife, mother, doting grandmother and great grandmother. Hazel was predeceased by her husband, retired Westport Police Lt. John J. Saviano Jr., her sons, John J. Saviano, III and Lawrence Saviano, and her daughter-in-law, Marlene Saviano. She was also predeceased by her siblings, Edna Call, Vera Lewis and George Lewis, Jr.


She leaves to cherish her memory and celebrate her life, daughters, Marie Richards (Robert), Melinda Bonin (Glen), Cheryl Petrone (Tom) and daughter in law, Debra Saviano. In addition, she leaves three grandchildren, Robert L. Richards Jr. (Dawn), Melissa Bailey (Ethan) and Michelle Saviano, along with her great-grandchildren, Dylan and Violet Bailey, her nephew, Charles Call, along with several other nieces and nephews.


A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Hazel's name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.