OBITUARY
Georgette Scalese
June 18, 1941 – December 31, 2019
SCALESE, Georgette on December 31, 2019. Beloved wife of Thomas. Loving mother of Lisa & David Pistilli, Dawn & John McGuinness, Gena & Chris Spinelli and Thomas Scalese. Dear grandmother of Nicholas & Lyndia Pistilli, Georgianna Pistilli, Isabella Pistilli, Johnny McGuinness, Michael McGuinness, Mack McGuinness, Christopher Spinelli, Alexander Spinelli and great-grandmother of Elijah Pistilli. Reposing Friday, 2-5 & 7-9 at the JOHN J. HEALEY FUNERAL HOME, 2005 W 6 Street, Brooklyn, NY. Funeral Mass to be celebrated on Saturday, 9:30 am at St. Mark's Roman Catholic Church. Entombment to follow in Greenwood Cemetery.
Services
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Visitation
Friday, January 3, 2020
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Visitation
Friday, January 3, 2020
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Visitation
Friday, January 3, 2020
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Funeral Mass
Saturday, January 4, 2020
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Funeral Mass
Saturday, January 4, 2020
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Entombment
Saturday, January 4, 2020
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Entombment
Saturday, January 4, 2020
Memories
Georgette Scalese
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYTara Scalese
January 10, 2020
Aunt Georgette. She was a light in our family. She loved us all so much and always brought smiles to our faces. Our hearts are forever touched by you. Although we are deeply saddened, we choose to celebrate your life, your strength, and the love you showed us. Some of our fondest memories are celebrating Christmas surrounded by family, enjoying all of your delicious food. Manicotti and all of the sweets. All of our weddings, and special moments in our lives. You were a gift given to us by God. We love you.
The Scalese’s
Terry, Frankie, Andrea, Tara, Vincent, and Douglas
Christopher Spinelli
January 10, 2020
Georgette passed on her best qualities to her children, one of whom I am lucky enough to call my mother. I will always remember and try to embody her fun-loving spirit, as we all should. I especially remember whenever she was around Bandit and would rile him up, basically putting her entire hand between this dog's teeth, and everyone would say "Grammy you're making the dog crazy, he's gonna bite!" and she would reply "calm down, I'm just having fun!" Rest In Peace Grammy, I hope you're in a better place and having plenty of fun.
Sincerely,
Christopher
Gena Spinelli
January 10, 2020
Georgette Elaine (Oelkers) Scalese is my Mother.
Dearest Mother,
I am who I am because of you.
Everything I know, you have taught me. All of my passions come from you.
My love of music from listening to your '45 record collection to the sounds of Elvis, Gene Vincent and Motown to name a few.
My love of art, ceramics of course! , Baking, dancing, nature, flowers and birds.
I'll always remember growing up and spending time in the kitchen with you. That is where you taught me to bake, sing and tap dance! Most of all you taught me kindness, caring, humor, patience, faith and Cotton Fields -"The Cotton Ball Song".
I am you and will always be " Little Georgette".
You will live on in me forever.
I Love you eternally, till we meet again in heaven.
Forever in my heart.
Your Daughter,
Gena Rae
Jean Betts
January 10, 2020
Time and distance never made a difference to us. We would pick up where we left off. Many a celebration we shared, family and friends, good times and bad. The bond of love never ceased. I rejoice in the fact she is with our other loved ones now and in no pain. May her memory be with us always and her love wrap around us and sustain us. She leaves a legacy of artistic talent , understanding and unlimited love to all she touched in this life. Her children and grandchildren have the benefit of her loving guidance, skill and patience , not to mention recipes . There are so many memories it would take a book but know we loved Georgette and will never forget. Love Always, Jean and Raymond
Thomas G. Scalese
January 10, 2020
Schweetie,
You not only touched my heart with love when we first met over sixty four years ago, you also touched everyone near you.
"Rest in Peace"
I Love You Always,
Tommy
Thomas Scalese
January 10, 2020
Georgette is my mother. She may no longer be with us in person, but her Love will always be with us. She was the most caring person I would ever know. Even while she was coping with her own illness, she would put the needs of others, including the aides that were supposed to be there to assist her, above herself. She was truly a very special person, as anyone who ever met her could attest to.
I will miss her eternally.
I Love you, Mom
Nicholas Pistilli
January 9, 2020
You will be forever loved and missed! I love you Grammy.
David Pistilli
January 9, 2020
Long before she received the appellation of “Grammy” from the first of what would be eight grandchildren, Georgette was my second mother.
When her daughter picked me to live with for the rest of her life, at age 15, Georgette gracefully folded me into the family. She sheltered me, fed me many a meal, and made me feel l had a second home. That feeling persists to this day and I’m glad that the last time I saw her, we watched the Mets game together side-by-side at her house. We agreed that Jason Vargas was not our favorite player.
When my first mother died nine years ago, my second mother was the only one I had left. Now they are both gone, too soon, but I take some solace to think they’re together and exchanging notes on their offspring. I continue to dedicate my life to merit their upbringing.
See you someday, Georgette! Thank you for everything.
Maurer & Don Peshkur
January 9, 2020
We only saw Georgette at family affairs but she aways made you feel welcome. Georgette was a very talented ceramist and I am proud to say I have 2 of her pieces. She was kind, caring and such a lady. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her especially her family.
Dawn McGuinness
January 9, 2020
Georgette is my mother but known to all as "Grammy". The Grandkids called her Grammy and it stuck with all. Grammy was kind , sweet,caring,artistically talented and creative. Above all she was a wife and mother -she was the best one ever. Her children were her life and when the grandkids came along she was over the top with love and pride for them. She always put others before herself,always concerned about everyone else, She babysat for my kids when I went back to work. My children are a direct reflection of her and they are very special. She was calm and collected never raised her voice. Grammy welcomed all into her home,always provided food,shelter and comfort for those who needed it.Never turned anyone away.She put up with all our craziness while growing up-never judged. She loved her ceramic business until Sandy storm took it away from her,she loved her garden and trees,she loved the birds,she loved going to Atlantic City. I have nothing but good and fond memories of Grammy.I am glad for that.I will keep my memories alive forever and in them Grammy will live forever. My hurt and pain is real and deep but her pain is gone.Grammy was not the delicate flower I thought her to be.She is the strongest person I will ever know.I thank her for all she has given me,for all she has taught me,for being my Mom. I thank God for sharing her with me and my family.May He keep her forever,safe and in his care. Farewell my Amazing,Beautiful Mom(Grammy)-until we meet again in paradise. I Love You and will Miss You, Forever, Dawn
Marie & Joseph Costa
January 9, 2020
My husband Joe & I have known Georgette for 35 years now and we have attended many party’s where she would always greet us with a warm smile, hugs & kisses, and would always have something welcoming & pleasant to say. Years ago Georgette sent us a ceramic watermelon dish as a gift that she made in her ceramic shop, and I cherished it then, and even more now! We can simply say that Georgette was a lovely lady on every level and the pleasure was all ours to have known her. Heaven gained a beautiful Angel.
Love Marie & Joseph Costa
Michael Melanzana
January 8, 2020
I AM FREE
Author Unknown
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free,
I’m following paths God made for me
I took his hand, I heard him call
Then turned, and bid farewell to all
I could not stay another day
To laugh, to love, to sing, to play
Tasks left undone must stay that way
I found my peace … at close of play
And if my parting left a void
Then fill it with remembered joy
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss
Ah yes, these things I too will miss.
Be not burdened… deep with sorrow
I wish you sunshine of tomorrow
My life’s been full I’ve savoured much
Good friends, good times
A loved one’s touch
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief,
Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your hearts and peace to thee
God wanted me now
He set me free.
Sarah Kearns
January 8, 2020
I was lucky enough to meet Georgette when I visited, with Lisa, in the spring of 2018. She welcomed me warmly into her home and I could feel all of the love that she had for her family. She was so proud of all her children and grandchildren and she loved them so much. What a beautiful family and I know she is so missed and forever in all our hearts. Love, Sarah, David, Devon and Amanda in Vermont.
Lisa Pistilli
January 8, 2020
Georgette is my Mom. She was simply the best. I know I broke her heart when I moved to Germany the day after my wedding. She forgave me since I was her first born. No matter the distance we remained close. Many phone calls, letters and visits. She loved each of us deeply. She loved her son in laws and adored her grandchildren. She was so pleased to have a great grandson. She put up with all our shenanigans. She took in our friends as her own children. She truly cared. Her love was unconditional. She graced so many lives. We are all richer for her presence. I try to live by the quote, to the world you may be one person but to one person you may be the world. She taught me that. Bring light and goodness, kindness matters. The day she died a woman knocked on my parents window. My brother went to the door. The woman handed him a gift bag of beautiful Russian chocolates. She said these are for the lady who waves to me from the window. She had never met my mom. Kindness matters. A wave, a smile, a touch, a compliment. Pay it forward for Georgette. Thanks mom for simply being the best.
Linda Novello
January 8, 2020
I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of your Mom. Georgette was a beautiful woman inside and out. I remember going to her ceramics shop and all the kindness and patience she showed to me. I will never forget her. Rest in peace Georgette. My deepest condolences and my prayers to your family.
Jerry D’Antone
January 7, 2020
There are so many memories of Aunt Georgette, her in her ceramics store creating beautiful objects but most of all her lighting up any room with her laughter. Whether spending time with family or friends she always brightened up what ever room she was in. She will be missed however she made the lives of all she touched just a bit better.
Rest In Peace.
Judy Permenter
January 7, 2020
Georgette has been part of our lives for a very long time.
She touched our lives in a very special way that only she knew how to do.
Georgette will be greatly missed, but her kindness, warmth and gentleness will be with us forever.
Lisa Ashland Haber
January 7, 2020
I met the Scalese family in the Fall of 1979. I came to NY from Florida to attend college at FIT in NYC. During orientation there, I met Lisa and we became fast friends. Soon after, I was invited to her house and had the pleasure of meeting her sisters, brother, dad and mom, Georgette. I have many fond memories of spending time in the Scalese home and all of the good food and friends always there. I would often spend the night when Lisa and I were going to college and sometimes we would decide to skip school, sleeping until noon or so and Georgette would come in and try to wake us up, telling me that my parents would not be happy knowing I was skipping my college classes! Lisa and I would also often go over to Georgette's ceramics store and make a few pieces. Such fun! My husband, Arthur and I spent several Christmas's at the Scalese home and I always enjoyed helping to make the delicious Christmas cookies that Georgette made every year. I felt that Georgette made me feel so welcomed and the Scalese home was like a "home away from home" for me while I lived in NY, as it was hard for me being away from my own parents. I feel very fortunate to have met this wonderful lady. All our love to the Scalese family.
Mary Dachary
January 6, 2020
Georgette, I have known you forever, I will miss your sweet demeanor . You were my family when I had none , I will miss speaking to you and sharing our lives as we get older . I lifetime of memories good times and family . ..rest now
Love Mary and Juan
Mary Dachary
January 6, 2020
Georgette , I have known you forever and I will miss your sweet demeanor . You have been my family when I had none, I love you . I will miss speaking with you and sharing life moments as we grew older ...rest now
Love Mary and Juan
Agata Catalano
January 6, 2020
I can't believe your gone. Georgette, I will keep you in my heart forever. Rest in peace, but please don't be late. ( who ever really knew her, knows how laxed she was). I'm happy I got to put that streak of purple in your hair. I feel that you have a part of me with you forever. Love you.
Danielle Wright
January 6, 2020
As a child, I had the pleasure of growing up with the Scalese family.
The Scalese daughters, Gena, Lisa and Dawn would babysit for my brother Chris and I, and we would spend the night at the Scalese household quite often.
Georgette was one of the sweetest people I have ever known.
She used to let us paint ceramics at her ceramic store and I can remember how loving and patient she was with us.
Georgette , Tommy and the kids were very close family friends to our Frasso family, and we were blessed to share many wonderful holidays and fond memories together.
God bless the Scalese family and Rest In Peace beautiful Georgette.
Kerry Murphy
January 5, 2020
I spent almost as much time in George’s home as my own in high school. She was a wonderful, loving and funny woman who always made me feel welcome. She also made the BEST rainbow cookies! I loved her and will miss her.
'Jay' Marino
January 5, 2020
I could never duplicate the way Georgette painted eyes on ceramic figures at the ceramic shop. She always managed to add a sparkle (with just paint or glaze) to the eyes on the figurines. And she once put me to work as the ceramic greenware repairman for some of her classes in the shop, re-attaching handles and heads and whatever other damage class attendees would inflict on their work of art. And Georgette, always so patient with them, would just have me set them back to work.
And, from the shop, she would always stop at Richie's or Barry's (next door) for something for dinner for Tom and the kids.
Stopping at the house early, I recall she favored blueberries and sugar in milk for breakfast and would always offer. And have a cup of tea? I don't think there was a flavor she didn't have in her selection.
May she rest in peace, and the grieving family become more at ease after attending to their Mom's more recent needs.
And for her husband, Tom.... I have no words to console him. I don't know how he feels and, somehow, hope I never experience it to find out.
It's still hard to believe I lost the Mother of my-sisters-from-another-Mother.
We may have lost Georgette, physically, but the memories are not easily lost. May God bless her and the family.
Dyan Chadha (Scamordella)
January 5, 2020
I'll always remember Mrs. Scalese's calm sweet voice. And I'll always remember when she yelled at me in her sweet voice " Get your feet off the coffee table!"( My feet were only up there because Gena put her feet up there) . I'm glad that I got to meet her and give her a hug for the last time when I was visiting in New York.
You will be missed Mrs. Scalese! You had a beautiful life and family. Rest peacefully!
Edna McGuinness
January 5, 2020
January 5 2020
I will always remember Georgette as a sweet gentle caring person and also a wonderful mother in law to my son RIP
Georgette
Edna McGuinness
Maria Sparacio
January 5, 2020
I remember meeting your parents the night we went out to dinner in celebration of Christopher’s published writing. Your family was welcoming and warm and I felt right at home.
May your beautiful mom rest in peace~
Marie Vento
January 5, 2020
I first met Georgette when I was 13 and had accompanied Lisa to the ceramics shop on Voorhies Avenue. Charmed by her sweetness and awed by the controlled chaos of the space, I was hooked! Any time I saw her over the many years since then she was gracious, funny, and seemingly able to navigate a busy life with a calm demeanor I privately marveled at. What a beautiful lady - and how privileged I feel to have known her! When I think of Georgette it will be with gratitude that such a special person was a part of my life and I will remember her with love forever.
Misti (Zaruches) Barnett
January 5, 2020
I have so many fond memories of Mrs. Scalese and the Scalese family. Gena and I spent many a day in her mom’s ceramics shop having fun and helping out her mom. I spent so much time at her house that I felt like part of the family. Mrs. Scalese was always so warm and welcoming to everyone who came to her home. The more the merrier. I loved spending Christmas Eve with the family. They are some of my best memories from my childhood. Great food and great company. It was especially touching on Christmas morning when Mrs. Scalese always had a small token for me to open. May she Rest In Peace. My condolences to Gena and her family at this difficult time.
Dale Gottdank
January 5, 2020
To the Scalese Family,
I was so sorry to hear of Georgette's passing. She was such a sweet, friendly and loving person. She always had time to pay attention and chat with us kids on East 21st Stret. My sincerest condolences to the family.
Christopher Spinelli
January 5, 2020
Many of my fondest memories of Georgette were found in the garden. For many hours we would talk about flowers and gardening while walking through the garden . Georgette always had a smile at the ready and she had a kind and gentle soul. The last time she visited my garden this year we did what we always did -walked around talking about the different flowers and trees. I was always happy walking in the garden with Georgette - I will remember her at all times of the year - but I will always remember her when I walk through the garden in Springtime as the flowers start to bloom, in Summer when the garden is bursting with color, in Fall when the flowers start to fade and in Winter when the hope of Spring awaits and life is once again renewed.
Maria D'Antone
January 5, 2020
I remember Aunt Georgette loving the holiday season..baking and cooking and sharing with everyone. A heart of gold ...kind ,down to earth and loving.
Mindy DeFelice
January 5, 2020
Georgette was the sweetest ,kindest, person I ever met.
We met over 25 years ago when I came to her house for ceramics. Many nights, many years we became good friends and our husbands became good friends.
Celebrated holidays ...truly family...
She will be missed more than words can ever say .
Until we meet again my friend ..
Please watch over your family..❤
Terry Smith-Kennedy
January 5, 2020
I have many wonderful memories of Georgette. Her mom, Pearl, lived two doors down from me growing up. I went to school with her daughter, Lisa. My brother and I would make ceramics at Georgette's store on Voorhees Avenue. Whether I encountered Georgette at the ceramics store or on a play date with Lisa, she was always so kind. I don't remember her ever raising her voice. The world was a better place because she was in it.
Tara Denora (Muldoon)
January 5, 2020
So incredibly sad to hear of her passing - I have so many fond memories of Mrs. Scalese - I spent a good deal of many childhood in her home. I always felt welcomed. Her gentleness and kindness are two qualities that stand out. I remember going with Gena to the ceramic store on Voorhies Avenue and trying to help out - I also remember being able to do projects after "helping". I know she will be greatly missed - Rest in Peace ❤
Janice Gugliotta
January 5, 2020
To the Scalese Family
I was very saddened to hear the news about Georgette’s passing, I remember when she would come into the store to see her Mom (Pearl) and her daughter Gina she was always smiling and happy always had a kind word for everyone never did I see her unhappy or upset with anyone....... She was one of the kindest people that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. Tom, Gina, Dawn and Lisa and there families just remember that there’s a special Angel looking out for all of you ❤️
Erin Muldoon
January 5, 2020
Georgette was my neighbor my entire life living on Voorhies Avenue. I did not realize until I was older what a creative, talented and artistic woman she was. (I think she passed that in to Gena my BFF) She was the most laid back relaxed person I think I've ever known. She welcomed me into her house a million times. Going to Georgettes ceramics on Voorhies Avenue was such a treat duri g my childhood and NO ONE could paint an eye with beautiful lashes like she could. For many Christmases I watched her meticulously decorate the Christmas tree with precision. There was an ornament on every branch. The beautiful colorful glass ornaments placed like only she could do. I remember buying Georgette her favorite Baileys Irish Cream and showing up every Christmas eve to enjoy the amazing food she had cooked. She was a big part of growing up in Sheepshead Bay.... all the Scalese's were. She will be greatly missed but what a beautiful life she had and her family was blessed and lucky to have her.
Gina McGrath
January 5, 2020
Dear Mr.Scalese and Family, I can’t believe it’s over 30 years that I met you all. I remember for some reason Dawn took me to your home after work. And we have been friends since. Georgette was so warm and sweet and welcoming. I saw her often when Dawn was pregnant for Johnny and I would visit. I wouldn’t believe that Gena and I would both live in Marine Park and I would see you at school functions for the boys. You will be missed by your family but , by those that knew you. I did daily novenas for you and you were a fighter so I knew they were being answered. May God Bless your family in their time of need. Georgette I’m a die hard Yankees fan however, I think you may help your Mets this year. ❤️🙏
Robert Piovesan
January 5, 2020
As you all may remember Tommy and George owned a ceramic shop. I used to work there and one day I came in and George was already there. She had herself set up at a table and she was painting eyes on a cat or something. She painted the most gorgeous eyes on cats, female statues whatever. Any way I came in and she said before you go downstairs to make Christmas trees, she wanted me to sweep upstairs since an afternoon class was coming in. Well I started sweeping. She got up and went to go do something and me not looking turned with the broom and knocked over all the paint and broke 3 or 4 pieces she had already painted. These things weren’t cheap and she didn’t get mad, she just said cmon let’s get this cleaned up. I don't ever think she told tommy because he never said anything to me... she always treated me great and she was an awesome woman. I used to call her Barbara back then because to me she looked like Barbara Eden face wise.. oh we had so much fun.. I liked her a lot and I will never forget her.. RIP GEORGE....
Cathy Sullivan
January 5, 2020
To Mr.Scalese and all the family, Sending you love and deepest sympathy for your loss, I met Mrs Scalese many years ago when Christopher and Alexander were young boys at school. She would volunteer and help her daughter Gena at all our school functions. Always smiling and could not be sweeter towards the children, families and staff. She made a difference in her loving gentle way. How wonderful that is. She was a beautiful lady both inside and out and Im honored and blessed to have known her. May you find comfort during this very difficult time from your strong faith and from the love you have for each other. Her legacy lives on through her beautiful family. May God Bless you always. You will remain in our prayers.
Georgianna Randlph
January 3, 2020
With great sadness, I learn the death of your mom,, May she now RSIP. Regards to the family .
Sincerely
Georgia Randolph
Kevin Parizo
January 1, 2020
Garreth and I want to extend to Lisa and her family our most sincere condolences upon the loss of their Mother. May their Mom rest in the loving light, peace, and love of our Lord forever. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Kevin and Garreth
Marilyn Ullrich
January 1, 2020
Always kind and welcoming, I will miss seeing you dear Georgette!