Delizia "Delia" Giovanna Gentile

Delizia "Delia" Giovanna Gentile, age 87, of Largo, Florida passed away on Thursday, April 13, 2023. Delia was born on July 6, 1935 in Vittoria, Sicily, Italy to Biagio and Maria Falconieri, both of whom have since passed away. In 1952, Delia moved to the United States of America to join her parents, her married sister, Josephine, and many of her relatives.

Delia married her childhood sweetheart, Joseph Gentile. Joe was a member of the Italian Navy, and the two were married on October 3, 1953, in Hartford, Connecticut, while he was on deployment. Together they had three children, Richard, Joanne, and Anthony. Late in the year 1971, Delia and Joe moved their family from Connecticut to Florida. Delia and Joe were married for 65 years until Joe’s passing in 2018.

Delia devoted her life to her family. She was a homemaker and a housewife, dedicating herself to raising their children and supporting her husband. Delia was an active member of St Jerome Catholic Church. She loved cooking and was known for her Sunday dinners. She was also an accomplished seamstress and enjoyed creating beautiful one of a kind garments for her family. Delia loved cruising and visiting the beach. She was also a fan of the occasional trip to the casino, where she would enjoy playing the slot machines.

She will always be remembered for her enduring love and adoration to her family. Her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even a great great grandson were the light of her life. Delia's memory will love on in the hearts for all who knew her.

Delia is survived by her children, Joanne Zocco (Robin "Chip”) and Anthony Gentile (Susan); grandchildren, Michael Detlor, Elizabeth Cutchall, Joshua Detlor, Brittany Hindes, and Danica Gentile; 10 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandson, 2 nephews, a niece, and many cousins.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Joseph Gentile; son, Richard Gentile; sister, Josephine Cancellieri; sister in law, Gloria Gentile, and brother in law’s, Salvatore Cancellieri and Gino Gentile.

A visitation for Delia will be held Sunday, April 30, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Serenity Funeral Home, 13401 Indian Rocks Road, Largo, FL 33774. A funeral mass will be held 11am Monday, May 1, 2023 at St. Jerome Catholic Church, 10895 Hamlin Blvd, Largo, FL 33774, with a graveside service to follow at Serenity Gardens Memorial Park.