Educators, families, and community members across Connecticut are grieving the loss of Bennett Nocera, a respected school social worker and advocate known for his profound compassion and dedication to youth. Nocera, a 40-year-old resident of the Taftville section of Norwich, was remembered by colleagues, loved ones, and students this week following the tragic discovery of his body in the Connecticut River.
The recovery occurred after emergency responders were called to a section of the Connecticut River on the evening of Wednesday, September 9. Dispatchers directed first responders to the area near Riverside Street, which transitions into Riverview Street in the vicinity of local marinas, following reports that a body was seen floating in the water at approximately 7 p.m.
Authorities later confirmed the identity of the individual as Nocera, who had previously been reported as a missing person, according to notifications shared by the Portland Police Department. Law enforcement officials have stated that an active investigation remains underway to determine the precise circumstances and events leading to his death.
News of Nocera's passing has prompted a widespread outpouring of grief from those who knew him personally and professionally. According to his obituary, Nocera was widely recognized as a shining light who left an indelible, positive mark on every person he encountered throughout his life, combining deep personal faith with an enduring commitment to helping others in times of need.
Raised in Middletown, Nocera built the foundations of his life and career within the state. He attended local public schools and graduated from Middletown High School before continuing his academic journey in higher education at Central Connecticut State University, where he completed his undergraduate studies.
Driven by a desire to support vulnerable populations and assist children in navigating emotional and developmental challenges, Nocera expanded his credentials by attending Fordham University. There, he successfully earned a master’s degree in social work, which laid the groundwork for his extensive career within public education and youth support services.
Nocera continued to invest in his professional development by returning to Central Connecticut State University to complete an advanced sixth-year degree in educational leadership. This comprehensive training allowed him to blend administrative expertise with hands-on social work, positioning him as a vital resource for school districts seeking compassionate leadership.
Over the course of his professional career, Nocera served across multiple Connecticut public school environments. Most recently, he worked as a dedicated student support social worker at the Barnard Environmental Science & Technology School in New Haven, where school directories identified him as an integral member of the student wellness and support faculty.
Throughout his educational career, Nocera was known for introducing innovative techniques to help young learners communicate their feelings and navigate complex classroom dynamics. Having developed fluency in American Sign Language, he frequently utilized ASL as an engaging tool to build rapport and unlock new modes of expression for students facing communication barriers.
In addition to his contributions within public elementary and middle school settings, Nocera devoted a significant portion of his career to specialized residential care. Beginning in October 2014, he served as a residential counselor at the American School for the Deaf in West Hartford, providing guidance and stability for deaf and hard-of-hearing students living on campus.
Outside the school environment, Nocera was an enthusiastic athlete who maintained strong ties to the regional sports community. He was an active participant on the diamond, playing competitively with the New England Deaf Softball Organization and taking the field as a member of the Night Flight Softball League.
His passion for sports was matched by a desire to mentor the next generation through community recreation programs. On weekends and after school hours, Nocera dedicated time to coaching youth soccer, using the athletic field as another avenue to encourage young athletes, instill confidence, and promote teamwork.
Family members highlighted Nocera’s deep devotion to his household, describing him as a loving partner and committed family figure. He is survived by his fiancée and her children, along with his mother, sister, and numerous extended relatives who shared close bonds with him throughout his life.
A public service to celebrate Nocera’s life and achievements is scheduled to take place on Saturday afternoon at the First Congregational Church in Old Lyme. Community members, friends, and former colleagues are invited to gather to honor his memory and offer support to his surviving family.
To honor his enduring legacy of service and advocacy, memorial contributions may be directed to several community organizations. Donations are being welcomed by Safe Futures in New London, as well as the Barnard Elementary Family Engagement Activity Fund and the Barnard Environmental Science & Technology School, ensuring that his commitment to student welfare and family support continues.
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