Ione Gaita

Ione S. Gaita, 70, passed away on January 16, 2026, in Pleasantville, New York. Born on September 24, 1955, in New Rochelle, New York, Ione lived a life defined by compassion, service, and deep devotion to her family and community.

A dedicated caregiver throughout her life, Ione worked as a registered nurse, offering comfort and healing to countless patients. Her nurturing spirit extended far beyond the hospital walls. After retiring from nursing, she continued to serve her community as a school crossing guard-a role she cherished deeply. She took great pride in ensuring the safety of children on their way to school each day and found joy in greeting them with warmth and care.

Family was at the heart of everything Ione did. She is lovingly remembered by her husband John, of 46 years; her children Lauren and Justin with his wife Kaiti; and her beloved granddaughters Olivia and Gabriella, whom she cared for full time. Her siblings Sam Wender and his wife Mary, and Bonnie Bogdany and her husband Charlie also mourn her loss. She shared close bonds with her extended family including sister-in-law Maryanne and her husband Pat; brother-in-law Jimmy and his wife Suzi; and father-in-law John Gaita Sr. Along with her Nieces and Nephews who always felt as one of her children.

Ione was predeceased by her parents Norman and Dorothy Wender; mother-in-law Mary Gaita; and brother-in-law Peter Gaita.

Her faith played a central role in her life. After converting to Catholicism, Ione became an active member of her church community. She participated in numerous church activities and generously gave her time to support senior groups-always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a kind word.

Ione embraced life with energy and enthusiasm. She loved reading, swimming, exercising, bike riding, walking outdoors, and spending quality time with family and friends. Health and wellness were important to her-not just for herself but as a way of inspiring others. In celebration of her 60th birthday, she completed a triathlon-a testament to her determination and vibrant spirit.

Those who knew Ione describe her as an angel on earth-compassionate, kind-hearted, full of love for everyone she met. Her warmth was felt; she brought light into every room. Whether through acts of service or simple moments shared with loved ones, Ione lived life fully-with grace, generosity, and unwavering love.

Her legacy will continue through the lives she touched so deeply. May the memory of Ione Gaita bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

A Wake will be held on January 22, 2026, from 04:00 PM to 08:00 PM at Ballard-Durand Funeral home of Hawthorne 21 W Stevens Ave.

A Funeral Mass will be held on January 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Augustine Roman Catholic Church 381 N Highland Ave.

The Eulogy will be read at the Wake.

If you would like to make a donation in Ione's honor please refer to the links below:

Contribute to NY529 College Fund for Olivia and Gabriella:

Olivia's code is Q5H-T4V

Gabriella's code is L6P-749

https://www.ugift529.com/home.html

St Jude Children's Hospital:

https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=9117447&fr_id=154020&pg=personal