

Antonetta R. Cavanagh, or Toni as we all knew her, passed away peacefully after a full life of more than 90 years. Born in Bayside, New York, to her loving parents, the late Rose and Antonio Somma, she lived a life deeply rooted in faith, family, friendship, and quiet generosity. She was the devoted wife of the late Donald J. Cavanagh, Sr. with whom she shared 50 wonderful years of marriage.
As the true matriarch and heart of her family, Toni’s greatest devotion was to her loved ones. She was the loving mother of Debra, Jean, Donald Jr. (Carolyn), and Thomas (Betty); the cherished grandmother of Kathryn (Jamin Mucherino), Benjamin, Isabel, and Charles; the dear sister of the late Marie Agnoli and Carmine Somma and gracious aunt to many nieces and nephews. Toni was always present to encourage and celebrate her children and grandchildren. Through her active role as a PTA class mother for each of her children, she was a constant, supporting presence in their lives.
Faith and community were central to Toni's life. She was an active member of the Christian Mothers at St. Martin of Tours and a proud member of the Columbiettes through the Knights of Columbus. She possessed a passion for gardening, a profound affection for animals, and a deep love for cooking and baking, always sharing these passions generously with those around her. Through St. Martin of Tours, she lovingly prepared baked goods for grieving families, bringing warmth and comfort to those in need. Her home was always welcoming, and her caring spirit touched everyone around her.
Though Toni will be deeply missed, her loving memory and spirit will live forever in the hearts of her children, grandchildren and all who were blessed to know her.
Service & Memorial Details
Visitation: Sunday, November 8, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Arthur F. White Funeral Home, 234 Broadway, Bethpage, NY 11714, US.
Funeral Mass: Monday, November 9, 2026, from 11:15 am to 12:15 pm at St. Martin of Tours RC Church, 220 Central Ave, Bethpage, NY 11714, US. Interment will follow from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm at Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum, 2030 Wellwood Ave, Farmingdale, NY 11735, US.
Memorial Donations: In lieu of flowers, donations in Antonetta's memory may be made to Pioneers for Animal Welfare Society, Inc. (PAWS) at www.paws-li.org.
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