Lucia Contarino

With profound love and sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Lucia (Lucy) Contarino who passed away peacefully at her home on August 23rd, 2026 at the age of 98.

Lucy was born on October 28th, 1927, in Passopisciaro, a small village at the foot of Mt. Etna in Sicily. As the fourth of seven siblings, Lucy devoted her life from an early age to the service and care of her family. On September 30th, 1961, she married Francesco (Frank) Contarino in her hometown of Passopisciaro and became mother to his four children: Josephine (Alfonso) Schipani, Sebastian (Joanne) Contarino, Virginia (Joseph) Osie, and Anthony Contarino. Together, Frank and Lucia welcomed three more children: Salvatore (Susan) Contarino, John Contarino, and Marilyn (Joseph) DiDomizio. Her legacy includes twelve grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed to experience her warmth and kindness.

Lucy's life was a study in quiet strength and generosity, lived entirely in the service of others. Whether offering a helping hand to friends and family or caring for those around her, she gave of herself selflessly, never expecting anything in return. A woman of few words, she had a quick wit and was famous for her unforgettable and infinitely quotable one-liners.

Lucy carried the warmth, strength, and rich traditions of her Sicilian heritage throughout her long and extraordinary life. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, where the aromas of her delicious meals would draw in family and friends alike. Her passion for cooking was matched only by her joy in gathering her loved ones for big family dinners, especially during the cherished celebrations of Easter and Thanksgiving. These gatherings were more than meals; they were a testament to the bonds of family and the joy of togetherness, moments that will forever be held dear by all who shared them. Serving and pleasing others with her food was her greatest joy; she was always the last to be seated at the table, making sure the needs of others were met before her own.

Predeceased by her beloved husband, Frank, Lucy is now reunited with him, leaving

behind a family that will forever cherish her memory. Her children, grandchildren, and

great-grandchildren will continue to honor her life through the traditions and values she

imparted to them. Though she is dearly missed, her spirit remains a guiding light for the family she nurtured so deeply. And as she would say, "atsa enough".