I buried you with these words and those that never met you should know how special you truly were:

I know what my darling grandmother meant to so many other people. She literally enriched lives everyday, whoever she was with.

At once indomitable, somehow timeless, she spanned generations; wise, loving, and important to so many, an utterly irresistible lady with spirit.

She had an immensely strong character, combined with a unique natural grace, and an infectious optimism about family, faith and life itself.

Above all, she was my friend. She was our friend. She was born of Sicilian culture, style and unswerving dignity for 94 years.

I know too what she meant to all of you and she made sure you knew what you meant to her as well.

The most charitable woman I have ever known and I can only wish I am half the woman she was. She exhibited this thru every St. Joseph's Altar, every gesture and every kind word.

Her loyalty was unwavering.

She raised her family with the zest for giving. She told me many times; "Give and never ask for anything in return and in that you will find true contentment in life. There is nothing more rewarding". She lived her own life by that testament.

Thru her teaching and wisdom, I have tried to adopt her philosophy. In 2007, during my own trials and tribulations I had the opportunity to travel to Africa for the first time in an attempt to change my life. At first, most feared for my safety, but my grandmother...she said GO...the good lord will guide you and keep you. I will pray an extra rosary every night to help keep you safe. She was my safe place.

For me, she meant everything and I had dreaded this moment along with, I know, countless others. Somehow, I never thought it would come.

She seemed gloriously unstoppable and, since I was a child, I adored her.
Her home was always filled with an atmosphere of fun, laughter and affection, and at times - a mean game of poker - and I learned so much from her value of life.

Apart from anything else, her turn of phrases could be utterly memorable. One of our favorites; 'Are you crazy or have you just lost your damn mind?!'

Above all, she saw the funny side of life and we laughed until we cried - How I shall miss her laugh and wonderful wisdom born of so much experience and an innate sensitivity to life.

She was quite simply the most magical grandmother you could possibly have, and I was devoted to her.

Her departure has left an irreplaceable void in countless lives but, thank God, we are all the richer for the sheer joy of her presence and everything she stood for.

After my grandfather died (her husband - Tony) I thanked god for the miracle of him and now, on this day, I am blessed with knowing that God granted me two miracles...

Grandma we will all miss your songs, your dances, the smiles and even the ‘oh yeah baby’s’ you gave us towards the end…

It’s been a long journey and you granted us with all the cherished memories any family could ask for - you are now HOME. May god now keep YOU.
Sunday, February 12, 2012

Aunt Rosie was one of my favorite people. Her sister, Lena Graziano, married into our family and we became one big family. Visiting Aunt Rosie and all of her sisters was a time of joy,not only for me, but also for my Mother. Thank you, Aunt Rosie, for the love you showed to me.
Thursday, February 9, 2012

Pat and Lois, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Mrs Plaia was a sweet and beautiful woman. She is now resting in the arms of God where we will see her once again.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Rosalie was a wonderful lady and loved by everyone. She will be missed by all her family and friends.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Aunt Rosie was like a second Grandmother to me. She was so sweet to my sister and I after my Grandmother Lena died. I know what she meant to your family and we are truly sorry for your loss.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012