Nancy Russo passed peacefully in hospice care center/Bayfront hospital at the age of 93 1/2.
Nunziata (Nancy) was born in Brontë Catania, Sicily, Italy in 1930 to her parents Angelina and Nunzio Spitaleri.
Nancy was the oldest of six children and was groomed very early in her childhood to take care of her brothers and sisters. Nancy took great pride in that role and was a second mom to them. She loved her family and caring for them was extremely important to her.
Nancy learned to cook, bake, crochet, knit, embroider and sew. She was good at all of it. Sewing earned her a certificate which later led her to America.
Nancy was known for her beautiful smile, gentle demeanor and delicious Biscotti (S cookies).
Nancy married at the age of 17 to Vincenzo Russo and at 18 she had her son Salvatore. Then in her late twenties and with the encouragement of her American uncles, the entire family moved to America. Nancy was expecting a child when they moved and was excited to give her children a better opportunity in America.
Patricia was the first to be born in America.
Nancy and Vince worked in the garment industry in Baltimore, Maryland. They worked hard and provided their family with a good life. It wasn't easy to learn English and the American way but they did it!
As retirement approached they decided to move to Florida for the warm weather and Vince could have a garden all year round.
2015 Vince passed and Nancy was left to hold down the home they formed in Florida and she did so, remarkably well. She also helped with taking care of her granddaughter Nina which she enjoyed very much.
Nancy is survived by the children Salvatore, Patricia Paule (Thomas), granddaughter Nina Garrett (Vance), brother Alfredo Spitaleri, sister Gina Olkowski and sister in law Guilia Spitaleri. 21 nieces and nephews and greats.
Memorial Service held at
Calvary Catholic Cemetery
Main Chapel
January 19, 2024
10:00 am
Per family's request in lieu of Flowers/Mass cards Please make a donation to Hospice in Nancy Russo's name.