Delores Ann Bafunno, 89, of Chesterfield, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 17, 2026. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, and woman of faith whose warmth, encouragement, and infectious smile touched many lives.

Delores was born February 7, 1937, and grew up on a farm in Witt, Illinois. She attended a one-room schoolhouse through eighth grade and went on to graduate as valedictorian of her Witt High School class. At just 17 years old, she began her studies at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, earning a nursing degree in 1957. She enjoyed a long and fulfilling career as a nurse and patient advocate at St. Mary’s Hospital in Clayton, Missouri.

Delores was a woman who embraced life. She enjoyed staying active, traveling, reading, playing bridge, and, most of all, spending time with family. Holidays and family celebrations were especially meaningful to her, as were the milestones and accomplishments of those she loved. She was particularly proud of her family members who continued the farming tradition she knew so well growing up.

Each year, Delores looked forward to returning to Fort Myers Beach, Florida, with her husband, Norm. She cherished the sunshine, the time together, and the opportunity to make new friends, which came naturally to her. Her engaging smile, genuine interest in others, and exceptional ability to listen allowed her to form lasting and fulfilling relationships.

Above all, Delores was devoted to her family. She was a constant source of positivity and encouragement to her children and grandchildren, always believing in their abilities and inspiring them to reach their full potential. To her family, she had a remarkable way of making all things seem possible.

Delores also valued and invested deeply in her faith, actively attending church and participating in congregational life. Her faith, optimism, generosity, and love for others were woven into everything she did.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 66 years, F. Norman Bafunno; her son, Norm Bafunno and wife Juli of Prosper, Texas; her daughter, Beth Bunton and husband Bill of Chesterfield, Missouri; seven grandchildren: Joey Hoffman and wife Alex of Chesterfield, Missouri; Jordan Hoffman and wife Jess of Cottleville, Missouri; Annie Bunton of St. Louis, Missouri; Ellie Bunton of Chesterfield, Missouri; Phillip Bafunno and wife Erin of Mequon, Wisconsin; Anna Smith and husband Zach of Hendersonville, Tennessee; and Nicholas Bafunno and wife Danielle of Westfield, Indiana; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Delores will be remembered for her beautiful smile, positive spirit, loyal friendships, strong faith, and extraordinary ability to make everyone around her feel valued. Her greatest legacy is the family and friendships she nurtured so lovingly. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Celebration of Life

Friday, August 28, 2026, at 10:00 AM

Friendship Village Chapel

15201 Village View Drive(opens in new tab)

Chesterfield, MO 63017

To watch the livestream of the service, please visit the Livestream Link(opens in new tab).

Private interment will take place at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to:

The Friendship Foundation (Hospice Care)

Friendship Village Sunset Hills

12563 Village Circle Drive

Sunset Hills, MO 63127

Attn: Sue Champion