Mary Lou DeSantis

Devoted to her family Mary Lou DeSantis (nee Varriano), a lifelong Staten Islander and devoted mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family and friends, at her Todt Hill home. She was 72. Mrs. DeSantis was born and raised in Richmondtown. The New Dorp High School graduate met her husband, Robert DeSantis, at the former New Dorp bowling alley, Bowling on the Green, on Christmas Day. The couple was married for 46 years. She was remembered by her family as a devoted mother and grandmother who enjoyed hosting parties and holidays at her home. She enjoyed spending her time with her children and grandchildren, making each day memorable with her "generous, outgoing, and loving personality," said her children. "Our mother was the heart of our family and her beautiful, courageous spirit was what got us through each and every day," said her daughter, Allison DeSantis Smith. Mrs. DeSantis devoted her life to her family, always putting her children and grandchildren first, and taking care of her husband day in and day out during his lengthy illness eight years ago. She was the past president of the Staten Island Mental Health Society Women's Guild and on the board of Saint Rita's women's auxiliary, and was a member of the Richmond County Country Club. Mrs. DeSantis also cherished yearly trips to Aruba and Long Beach Island with her late husband and family. She was an avid New York Jets fan, and had season tickets with her husband for much of their life. In addition to being a loving mother and grandmother, Mrs. DeSantis cherished her time with her beloved dog, Harry. She was a wonderful cook and baker who will be remembered for her apple pies and chicken soup. She enjoyed gardening, golfing, dancing, and the music of her favorite singer, Elvis Presley. Mrs. DeSantis was a parishioner of St. Rita's R.C. Church, Meiers Corners. She was described by her grandchildren as "the most amazing grandmother who devoted her life to her family, making sure she was present at every sports game, dance recital, graduation, prom, and school play." Her husband of 46 years, Robert DeSantis, passed on in 2008. In addition to her daughter, Allison, Mrs. DeSantis is survived by her son, Robert DeSantis Jr.; daughter, Cheryl Maniscalco; son-in-law, Anthony Maniscalco; grandchildren, Alanna, Nicholas, Tyler, and Anthony Jr.; sisters, Veronica Varriano, Madeline Savoca, Luanne Vagle, Donna Hett. She was predeceased by her brother, Michael Varriano. Services will be held at Casey Funeral Home, Castleton Corners, on Tuesday and Wednesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral is Thursday at 11 a.m. in St. Patrick's Church. Entombment will be in Moravian Cemetery, New Dorp.