Pellegrino J. Morgillo and Mary C. Morgillo

Mary and Pat were residents of Plainview, NY for 67 years, where they were also parishioners of St. Pius X Church until their passing.

Pat was born in Italy to Alfonso and Gelsomina Morgillo on October 12, 1924 and migrated to the United States when he was 2 years of age. Mary was born in Manhattan, NY to Peter and Catherine D’Alessandro on March 20, 1927. Both of their families later resided in the Bronx, where a chance meeting in a neighborhood ice cream parlor resulted in a courtship and a wedding on June 15, 1947 - a love affair that lasted more than 73 years.

Pat was a Navy veteran who served in WWII. His early schooling as an aeronautic engineer led to his rating as an airplane mechanic while in the Navy.

In the years following, Pat became an accomplished electrical engineer. His inherent engineering abilities were apparent at a very young age. His mother often told the story about how he took apart and rebuilt a radio at the age of four! So, it was natural for him to have a career in electronics.

He earned the position of VP of Engineering for Lafayette Radio Electronics during his 30 year tenure and held that same status at Kyocera Corp. and Cybernet Electronics before retiring in 1991 at the age of 67. He traveled extensively to Japan during his career and formed close friendships that lasted well into his retirement years. He was an incredible provider for his family and respected by many, not only as a colleague but also as a mentor.

Even after retirement, Pat got so much enjoyment from all his electronic equipment, always listening to his extensive music collection and whistling along like a bird. He took great pride in perfecting that talent as well!

Pat could accomplish anything he set his mind to. There was never a need for a plumber, carpenter, mechanic, painter…he did it all! His family fondly remembers him taking care of his home, the cars, and gladly helping others – all in between his years of traveling. He was frequently sought out for his wisdom and expertise.

Pat wasn’t all work and no play, though. He was passionate about his favorite pastime, bowling. He was on two leagues until he was 88 years old, and his competitive spirit never wavered. He frequently walked through the door proudly displaying his latest trophy. He enjoyed watching baseball and football and enthusiastically cheering on his teams - Yankees and Giants. In his retirement years, he and Mary were up to date on all the newest movies. Besides the typical action film, they often appreciated a romantic comedy, which absolutely appealed to the sensitive side of him that we all loved.

Mary, after graduating from high school at the age of 16, worked at a men’s haberdashery in Manhattan as a secretary. She often talked about how much she enjoyed going into the City. She reminisced about the datenut bread and cream cheese from Chock Full ‘O Nuts and her first introduction to Chinese food, both of which remained two of her favorite treats. Although the typewriter was clearly in use by then, her employers preferred her beautiful penmanship for their correspondence. She maintained that craft throughout her life and many have been the lucky recipients of her beautiful cards and letters with underlining of every meaningful word. Even the checks she wrote to pay her bills were a work of art!

She left the job she loved when she was 26 years old to give birth to their first child in 1953. She traded her secretarial position for that of domestic engineer (Superwoman), and all the years following she was completely dedicated to their growing family and their home.

Mary truly lived life to the fullest. She is remembered by all who knew her as loving, friendly, warm, and always wearing a smile. She was incredibly kind and compassionate and loved being a member of the St. Pius X Parish, where she was a Eucharistic Minister and active in the Rosary Society, St. Vincent de Paul Society, Senior Club, Altar and Vestment Care, and she enjoyed volunteering her services at the yearly summer carnival.

As an accomplished seamstress, Mary often made beautiful gowns and dresses for when she accompanied her husband on a business trip or vacation. Embellishing her clothing with special trimmings was something she was known for. She loved cooking (cookbooks were read like a novel); spending time with family, friends and fellow parishioners; attending daily mass; movies; crossword puzzles; card games and playing Scrabble. The occasional trip to Atlantic City brought a smile to her face as well! Mary had a beautiful voice and loved singing at church and at home.

Gatherings at the Morgillo residence were always an exciting event. Mary earned her well-deserved nickname “Hostess with the Mostest” and will forever be remembered for those amazing times and her love of being surrounded by the special people in her life. Of course, we also can’t forget her decorating for every season or occasion during the year, and Pat carried out every one of her designs and wishes. They were truly a gifted pair!

Mary and Pat had a remarkable bond. Along with their faith, the most important part of married life was the love they had for each other, family, children and grandchildren. They were devoted and beloved parents to Donna, Joseph (Karen), Maria and Angela, and loving grandparents to Emily and Fei. They showered their family with an affection that was unconditional and timeless. Their loving example and guidance will be etched in our hearts forever.

Pat, the eldest of three siblings, is survived by his sister Marie. Mary, the eldest of eight is survived by her sister Jeanette.

Their lives of deep love and dedication have been an inspiration. They touched many lives and blessed us with memories that will always be cherished.