Norman Elia

Norman Elia, 91, of Old Saybrook, CT, passed away on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Pensacola, FL, where he had recently been living. Born in New Britain, he had lived in New York City and Old Saybrook since 1989. From a young age, he developed a deep love for music, playing the piano and leading youth services at the South Congregational Church from age 10 to 18. A proud graduate of New Britain High School, class of 1952, he earned his bachelor’s degree in music education from Boston University. He furthered his education with a master’s degree from Columbia University. He also pursued postgraduate studies at Stanford University, Westminster Choir College, and the University of Indiana, attending many musical workshops to enhance his skills and broaden his knowledge throughout his career. Norman served honorably in the U.S. Army as a Chaplain’s Assistant during the Korean War, where he also took on roles as choir director, children’s choir director, and organist at the Army Base. He began his teaching career with the New Britain, CT, school district at Smith Elementary School and Roosevelt Junior High School, but he is best remembered for his tenure as the Choral Director at New Britain High School from 1961 to 1991. During that time, he took over the baton. He continued teaching the well-known Choralaires and Starlettes, and most importantly, he served as the director for 'The Revue,” which featured outstanding sold-out shows night after night, highlighting the exceptional talents of his music students. Later in his career, he revived popular musicals on stage at New Britain High School and also led the Madrigal Singers and Show Choir, boosting the reputation of the choral program with active student participation in various large choruses and select groups, while working with local community orchestras and musical organizations. Motivated by his passion and love for teaching music, he inspired thousands of his music students, many of whom went on to successful careers in music education across the country. After retiring, Norman made his permanent home in New York City, immersing himself in the vibrant world of performing artists, museums, and cultural venues he had supported throughout his life. He also volunteered for over 15 years at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City. Norman is survived by his brother, Robert “Bob” Elia of Ozark, AL; his nephew Robert J. Elia of Birmingham, AL; and his nieces Emma Elia Mitchell of Birmingham, AL, Hanna Elia Flannigan and her husband Bill Flannigan of Pensacola, FL, and Margaret Elia Booth (Ben McCaig) of Tuscumbia, AL. Norman was predeceased by his grandmother, Gozel Lazar; his parents, Yousepus and Hanna Elia; his brother, Frederick “Fred” Elia; and his sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Elia, all of whom lived in New Britain, CT. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 27, at 10 a.m. at South Church, 90 Main Street, New Britain, CT. After the service, there will be a reception in the Assyrian Room. Family burial with military honors is scheduled for Monday, September 29, at 10 a.m. at Fairview Cemetery in New Britain, CT. Instead of sending flowers, donations can be made to the Norman Elia Music Scholarship c/o New Britain High School, 110 Mill Street, New Britain, CT 06051, or to the South Church Memorial Fund. Carlson Funeral Home in New Britain is handling the arrangements. We invite you to share a memory or a note of sympathy at www.carlsonfuneralhome.com

Norman Elia

February 8, 1934 - July 23, 2025

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Norman Elia

February 8, 1934 - July 23, 2025

365 Days of Grief Support

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