Maria Gargiulo

Maria Gargiulo, age 87, passed away on Friday, November 15, 2024. Born in September 1937 outside of Naples, Italy, Maria was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister and aunt.

Maria was a kind-hearted, loving mother and grandmother who adored her grandchildren and loved nothing more than spending time with them. She was also an incredibly strong and courageous woman who raised her three children as a single mother following the unexpected death of her husband, Giuseppe. Then, to ensure they would have better opportunities, she moved them when they were adolescents across the globe to live in the U.S.  She was incredibly proud of her three children and the lives they ultimately built for themselves.

Maria found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved to cook, was an avid reader, and was a formidable crossword puzzle solver.

Maria is survived by her son, Santo Gargiulo (spouse Elsy Garcia), by her daughters, Teresa (spouse Anthony Pizzillo), and Anna, and her five grandchildren: Joseph Gargiulo, Mariapaula Gargiulo, Emilia Pizzillo, James Pizzillo, and Milo Pfeifer who will remember their nonna with much love and affection.

Maria’s quiet strength, kindness, and the memories she leaves behind will be cherished by all who knew her. Her legacy of dignity and her love for her family will endure in the hearts of those she touched.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that any contributions be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.