Maria Lucia Garzone

April 27, 1928 ~ May 14, 2025

Maria Lucia Garzone, affectionately known as Lucia and lovingly called "Super Nonna" by her

family, passed away peacefully of natural causes on May 14, 2025, in Newburgh, N.Y., at the age of 97. Formerly of the Bronx, Lucia leaves behind a legacy of love, family devotion, and a vibrant spirit cherished deeply by all who knew her.

Born on April 27, 1928, in Facchio, Benevento, Italy, Lucia embraced life with warmth, generosity, and unyielding strength. A courageous young mother, she bravely embarked on a journey to America with her two small children, Grace (age 2) and Anthony (age 1). She joined her beloved husband, Luigi Garzone, who had already established a life for their family in the Bronx. Reunited, they lovingly built a welcoming home, later welcoming another son, Elio, in 1959.

With an infectious joy for living, Lucia was known for her warm smile, vibrant personality, and graceful demeanor. Her skill in the kitchen was legendary among her family, who were always abundantly fed with homemade Italian cuisine created from secret recipes passed down through generations. Lucia's hearty meals nurtured her family physically, but it was her unconditional love and kindness that nurtured their spirits. She also dedicated her time and talents to various community roles, notably working as a seamstress and serving as a much-loved "lunch lady" caring for preschool children whose days she brightened countless times.

Lucia was a devoted parishioner, deeply connected to her church community, where her faith guided her throughout her life's journey. At leisure, she enjoyed word search puzzles, but nothing brought her greater happiness than spending time surrounded by family. Lucia adored her children Grace Santoli, Anthony Garzone, and Elio Garzone and embraced their spouses Joe Santoli, Angela Garzone, and Adele Garzone as her own.

Her joy multiplied with grandchildren Cristina, Lorenzo, and Louie Santoli, Maria, Melinda, Louis, Anthony Oddo, and Vincent Garzone. She cherished her great-grandchildren Nicholas, Alexandra, Joey, Frank and Lorenzo Santoli, and Christian and Matteo Rozmosh—all carried forward her love and wisdom.

Lucia was preceded in death by her dear husband Luigi Garzone.

Funeral services celebrating Maria Lucia Garzone's extraordinary life will be held at Brooks Funeral Home, 481 Gidney Ave, Newburgh, N.Y., on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. A Memorial Mass will follow on Monday, May 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., at The Church of Saint Theresa of Calcutta in Newburg, N.Y. Burial will take place afterward at Gates of Heaven Cemetery, Hawthorne, N.Y.

Lucia, "Super Nonna," leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories, love, and strength.

We will miss you dearly!

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation in Maria's name to St. Jude's Children's Hospital .