Helen Mary Corrao

Mom came to San Diego with her family when she was in her early 20’s.

She started working at General Dynamics. She met dad as he happened to be her neighbor at the time. He had his sights set on her right away. They hit it off, obviously, as they were married January 25, 1948 at Our Lady of the Rosary.

They were blessed with 5 exceptional children. Mom was a stay at home mom during that time, as dad was out fishing for a brief time. We’ve heard many stories from our own friends about loving to come to mom’s house after school. They would come in through the back kitchen door and mom would always be ready with a snack.

In 1976, mom decided to go back to the workforce and was a Personnel Manager at The Broadway in Fashion Valley. She took the bus to and from work each day, but made sure she was home before dad. She still had dinner ready for her husband and kids.

Mom was a faithful woman. You could see her at church every morning. Even suffering with Dementia at the end, she knew every prayer and response during mass. It was a comfort to see her at peace during Mass.

Mom was active in the ICF, Catholic Daughters, Altar Society, but most of all, Deacon Jack’s wife. She was a fixture alongside dad, entertaining and supporting the church, both spiritually and financially. She was dedicated to St. Vincent’s even when dad went back to Our Lady of the Rosary to retire as a Deacon. As a bonus, her grandchildren brought her much joy.

Mom had a beautiful life, in spite of losing Jacquie a few years ago. Mom and dad traveled and enjoyed the fruits of their life together. They took made many trips back to Italy to visit their parents’ homes, took many cruises and other adventures.

She is survived by her children Mary JuJu Paluso (Eugene), Cheryl Corrao, Regina De Santi, Jack Corrao II (Mary). Her husband Jack and daughter Jacquie preceded her in death.

Over mom’s lifetime, she was blessed with her grandchildren; Maria Serrano (Pablo), Russell Paluso, Eugene Paluso, Jr., Ashley Mullenaux (Dan), Frank De Santi, Monique Corrao and Jack Corrao III. Great-grandchildren Cristian Paluso-Serrano, Isabelle Serrano, Helena Serrano, Tomas Serrano, Lorenzo Serrano, Lola Serrano and Jack Mullenaux.

Mom passed away peacefully in her sleep. She was tired. She knew her work on earth was done and she longed to be reunited with her husband. Mom was truly an angel on earth, she must be a superstar in Heaven. Rest in Eternal peace mom. We love you and thank you for your endless dedication to all of us. We now take the reins and pray we can fill those shoes as you did.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in mom’s name to The Carmelite Monastery, 5158 Hawley Blvd. San Diego, CA 92116