Sunday, August 25, 2024
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Today, we gather to celebrate the life of our beloved grandmother, a woman who embodied grace, strength, and an unwavering faith in God. She was more than just a grandmother to us—she was our guide, our teacher, and the cornerstone of our family.
Grandma’s faith was the foundation of her life. She trusted in God’s plan, drawing strength from her faith in times of joy and hardship alike. It was this faith that gave her the serenity and courage to face whatever life brought her way, and it was a beacon that guided her every decision.
Grandma was also a woman of incredible intellect and curiosity. She was always reading, learning, and soaking in the world around her. Whether it was a new book, a cultural event, or simply the wonders of everyday life, she approached it all with an open mind and a thirst for knowledge. Her conversations were filled with insights and wisdom, and she had a remarkable ability to see the world from multiple perspectives.
One of the things that brought her great joy was tennis. She was a talented athlete, and even as her physical abilities waned with time, her love for the game never diminished. Hearing her stories about her youth in Newark, where she honed her athletic skills, always brought a smile to my face. These stories were intertwined with our proud Italian heritage, a legacy she was immensely proud of and passed down to us with love and pride.
Fashion was another passion of Grandma’s. She had a deep appreciation for elegance and style, and we often talked about Dior’s new look, finding the perfect shoe,sewing, and the latest trends. She believed in the power of presentation and the confidence that comes from feeling good in what you wear like her Zia. Her own sense of style was impeccable, and she carried herself with a grace that was truly inspiring.
Grandma was also a trailblazer. In a time when it was challenging for women to advance in the business world, she excelled with her shorthand and typing skills. She was a hard worker, confident, and never hesitated to speak her mind. Her determination and professionalism paved the way for her success, and she became a role model for us all.
And of course, who could forget her incredible meatballs? Cooking was one of Grandma’s greatest passions, and nothing made her happier than gathering her family around the table for a meal she had lovingly prepared. She took great pride in feeding us, especially her grandkids, and her kitchen was always filled with the aroma of something delicious. Her recipes, like her wisdom, have been passed down to us, and every time we make them, we’ll be reminded of her love.
Grandma was a woman of many talents and passions, but more than anything, she was a woman of love. She loved her family fiercely and was always there for us with open arms and a kiss. She taught us the importance of standing up for what we believe in, of embracing our heritage, and of living life with purpose and joy.
As we say goodbye today, let us carry forward the lessons she taught us: to have faith, to never stop learning, to embrace our heritage, to work hard, and to love deeply. Grandma’s spirit will live on in each of us, in the stories we share, the meals we cook, and the values we hold dear.
Thank you, Grandma, for everything.
