Maria DiMonda's Obituary
Maria DiMonda, age 100, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026, at The Residence at Vinnin Square in Swampscott, Massachusetts. She was the beloved wife of the late Pasquale DiMonda, with whom she shared many happy years of marriage.
Born on April 23, 1925 in New York City, Maria was the daughter of the late Domenic Piccolo and Anna Piccolo (née DiMaio). At a young age, she moved back to Italy with her family, where she grew up and attended school. She spent her formative years in Naples during World War II. She endured much hardship, including years without adequate food or electricity, while surviving the dangers of wartime Europe. These early experiences forged a strength, courage, and determination that defined her life.
It was in Italy that Maria met her future husband, Pasquale, married, and welcomed her first child. With remarkable bravery and independence, she later made the decision to return to the United States on her own to start a new life for her family, who joined her about a year later.
In 1955, Maria, along with her husband, opened Patsy’s Bakery, which became a beloved family business where all of their children lent a hand. The bakery was cherished in the community and is believed to have been one of the first Italian bakeries on Long Island. When her son was old enough to help run the business, it proudly became known as Patsy’s and Son Italian Bakery, a symbol of family, perseverance, and immigrant success. It is still a local favorite 70 years later.
Maria lived a full and adventurous life. She traveled the world and enjoyed many cruises throughout her lifetime. She was a wonderful cook whose meals brought people together. She enjoyed playing bingo, watching tennis and horse racing, and was known for her incredible luck. Her life story reflects far more than any single pastime—she was a survivor, a pioneer, a businesswoman, a mother, and an extraordinary woman whose strength and spirit inspired all who knew her.
She is survived by her four children: Filomena; Annette (Charles); Frank (Debra); and Linda (Michael); six grandchildren: Kiara (Don), David, Danielle (Spencer), Diandra (Jeremy), Christopher (Isabelle), and Olivia; six great-grandchildren: Joshua, Emily (Denzil), Lucus, Alisha, Abigail, and Leo; and two great-great-grandchildren, Sophia and Olivia. She is also survived by her sister, Flora, and many nieces and nephews.
Maria was predeceased by her husband, Pasquale; her parents; and her siblings, Vincent, Sam, Rose, Frank, and Louie.
Services will be held at Grace Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home, 16931 US Highway 19 North, Hudson, Florida 34667. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM.
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