My Nonna was the matriarch of our family, nurturing not only her children and grandchildren but everyone she came in contact with. She was truly one of a kind, always cooking from sun up to sun down, and she would get upset if you didn’t let her know you were coming over—only because she wanted to prepare a feast for you. Even then, she would still manage to put something amazing together. Her warmth and generosity touched so many lives, and she was the heart of our family.

My Nonna was such a loving, funny, and carefree woman. She taught me to love others and be unapologetically myself. She could light up the room and make anyone laugh. She showed her love for others through her passion—cooking. For many years, she would give out Italian cookies during Christmas, spreading holiday joy. She also served at the Santa Rosalia Festival, where I worked alongside her, serving arancinis, cannolis, and calamari. These moments brought our family and community together, and her spirit made every event special.

My father and his siblings have been caring for my Nonna and Nonno, managing everyday costs while still taking care of their own daily lives. My Nonno is older and cannot work, and they were married for over 50 years. She cared for him every day, and as you can imagine, this has been extremely hard for him as well. We are in need of help to ease the financial burden and give my Nonna the proper goodbye she deserves.

The funds raised will go toward funeral costs and memorial services for my Nonna. I am asking for help and support from the community to honor her memory and support my family during this difficult time. Any contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference and help us celebrate the life of a woman who gave so much to others.