Obituary of Fernanda N. Carozza

Fernanda N. Carozza of Yonkers, NY passed away unexpectedly on October 7, 2022. She was born in Tagliacozzo, Abruzzo, Italy to Antonio and Maria Anna (Collacciani) DeSanctis on December 25, 1940 (A Christmas Gift). She arrived in New York on January 17th, 1956, after a 9 day voyage on the Andrea Doria ship at age 15 and was greeted by her father. Fernanda Natalina DeSanctis and Ilmo Carozza met in Yonkers and were married at Mt. Carmel St. Anthony Church in Yonkers, NY on Oct. 4, 1958. She is predeceased by her husband Ilmo Carozza who she cared for at home until his passing, her parents, and her sisters Ineide Onofri, Iride Ciamei and Vincenza Collacciani. Fernanda is survived by her three children, Sandra P. Gizzo (Carmine) of Mahopac, NY, Frank A. Carozza (Laurie) of Hastings-on-Hudson, NY and Carolyn L. Santamaria (Joseph) of Eastchester, NY. Proud grandmother of seven grandchildren; Frank J. Gizzo (Annamaria), Maria V. Vaglica (Anthony), Eric Santamaria, Alexis N. Carozza, Frank J. Carozza, Lisa Santamaria and Cristina Santamaria and enthusiastic Great-Grandmother of Lucas Gizzo, Christian Gizzo, Anthony Vaglica and Domenic Vaglica. Fernanda is also survived by her sisters, Maria Teresa Vetturini and Oliva DeSanctis and nieces and nephews in Italy, and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and family here in New York, the United States and New Zealand. She was an active member of St. Ann's Catholic Parish in Yonkers, NY for 52 years and devoted to attending mass and praying the rosary daily. She will be remembered for her kindness to others, giving spirit, and strong faith. Her greatest joys were cooking for family and friends and tending to her beautiful garden and flowers enjoying a simple life making memories with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren - her greatest joys. Fernanda worked as a seamstress for the International Ladies Garment Workers Union (ILGWU) for more than thirty years which became a lifetime hobby hand-crafting elaborate gowns, suits, prom dresses and even Halloween costumes for all of her family to cherish. This may be why she always left the house impeccably dressed! At a time when most people would be comfortable with their life, Fernanda's work ethic and immeasurable energy set a precedent that her whole family was proud of. As an immigrant who knew only the basics of the English language, Fernanda enrolled herself in adult education classes and earned her high school diploma at age 50. Her emphasis on education carried into her career, employed by the Yonkers Public Schools for 17 years until the age of 69. Fernanda was an asset to her school community and served as a role model to all the students. She frequently reminded all her grandchildren that when they received their high school diplomas, the education process had just begun "the lessons of college and the real world awaited." Such beautiful memories and lessons will remain with us all. You leave a legacy of inspiration and strength. Rest now and be happy with your loved ones in Heaven Mom. Until we meet again.