04/10/2026
Our BEAN Behavioral Health family has been hurting with the passing of Dr. Corcione’s mother. Candice Corcione was one of BEAN’s fiercest cheerleaders.. My favorite is how she always ensured BEAN baking day had everything we needed, and touted our services wherever she was. Her family gave an incredibly beautiful service today. She would be proud of you all!! ❤️❤️❤️
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Candice Corcione, the former Executive Director of the Tolland County Chamber of Commerce and a devoted member of our Board of Directors.
Candice was more than a leader within our organization—she was a guiding presence, a source of wisdom, and someone who genuinely believed in the power of connection and community. Through her years with the Chamber, she not only strengthened local businesses, but also built lasting relationships and friendships that extended far beyond the workplace.
On a personal note, Candice was a mentor and truly one of my dearest friends. She brought heart, humor, and authenticity to everything she did. And she always took the time to really listen. No matter what kind of week she was having, she always reached out, checked in and let me know she was only a phone call away. I am forever grateful for the opportunities she gave me, the laughter we shared, the guidance she so generously offered, and the genuine love she radiated. To have been a recipient of that love is a gift that will stay with me always.
We invite you to read her full obituary and join us in honoring her life and legacy.
Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her.
With sympathy,
Melissa Smith, Executive Director
Tolland County Chamber of Commerce
On behalf of the Board of Directors
“Candice Corcione
January 13, 1951 – April 2, 2026
Candice Corcione—a fearless leader, devoted wife, loving mother, adoring grandmother, and pillar of her community—passed away on April 2, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her family. Born in Hartford, CT, on January 13, 1951, Candice lived a life defined by resilience, strength, grace, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to the success of those around her.
In 1970, Candice met the love of her life, James. Over 55 years of marriage, they built a life of shared passion, where they accomplished many things. They founded Eastern Antiques and Restoration where they spent decades working in arts and antiques, attending countless auctions and surrounding themselves with beautiful rarities. Their bond was celebrated through music, travel, and a shared dedication to their life’s work.
As a confident world traveler, Candice moved around the globe with gallantry. She enjoyed spending time in India, Hawaii, Canada, and Europe. During her adventures, she extended her family with the unique friends she made along the way.
She had a beautiful way of showing love—often through food and time spent together. She was known for her restorative, healthy, and delicious meals. Her kitchen was filled with love, laughter, and fine wine. She would go to the grocery store nearly every day and could tell you the price of anything at Aldi’s. She never missed an opportunity to remind those she loved to “drink more water” or ask, “Have you eaten today?” She cherished her family. She was a mother figure and mentor to many, building a family based on love rather than blood. Her home was a sanctuary, and she expressed her care through nourishment and devotion. She cherished her lifelong friendships, especially with Gail Bailey and Drucilla Conway. They would travel together, have dinner parties, and talk on the phone for hours. Candice was truly a remarkable person.
Professionally, Candice served as the Executive Director of the Tolland County Chamber of Commerce. During her tenure, she didn’t just lead; she fostered a genuine sense of community that extended far beyond the office walls. Her work strengthened relationships across the state and supported the growth of countless local businesses. Even after retiring as Executive Director, she remained a vital force as a board member, sharing her wisdom to ensure the Chamber and its new leadership continued to thrive. She was a mentor to many and a friend to even more.
She was predeceased by her parents, Lavonne Murphy of St. Albans, VT and Leo Belise of French Hill, Quebec; her sister, Patricia Higgins of Crystal River, FL; her nephew, Gary Grumbach of Windsor, CT; and niece, Catherine Grumbach of Oakdale, CT.
Candice is survived by her devoted husband of 55 years, James Corcione Jr. of Tolland, CT. She leaves behind her daughters, Carla Corcione of Tolland, CT, and Rhonda Peloso and her husband Michael of Chuluota, FL; her goddaughter, Ashley Wilson of Palmer, MA; her cherished grandchildren, Tajia and Surya Corcione of Tolland, CT, Cyrus, Myles, Bryce, and Isabelle Peloso of Chuluota, FL, Antonio Peloso and his wife Kylee of New Smyrna Beach; and her beloved Golden Retriever puppy, Hunter Lee.
Service Information:
Please join Candice’s family and friends to celebrate her remarkable life on April 10, 2026, at FFoster Hill Farm 21 Stafford St, Stafford Springs, CT. Calling hours will be from 1-4 pm, eulogy at 4 pm and a reception to follow.
Memorial Donations:
In lieu of flowers, the family requests you help sustain Candice’s legacy by donating to the newly established Candice Corcione Memorial Fund managed by the Tolland County Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors (860) 872-0587 – tollandcountychamber.org. This fund will provide support to local our local non-profit agency and scholarships, ensuring that the community Candice loved so much continues to succeed and flourish.”
