Edwina Ann Aloi

Edwina Ann Aloi, 82, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away peacefully in her sleep on October 28, 2026. Born on November 13, 1943, in Elmira, New York, she was the daughter of Stephen J. and Antoinette Emanuel Aloi.

One of four children, Edwina grew up surrounded by a large Italian family of aunts, uncles, and cousins whose closeness helped shape her larger-than-life personality and lifelong devotion to family. She spent her childhood roaming the Patch with her cousins, brothers, and friends, visiting Eldridge Park, swimming in the Brand Park pool, and always visiting different family homes after church.

She graduated from Elmira Free Academy in 1961 and worked as a bookkeeper throughout her life, but her most cherished roles were those of mother and grandmother.

Growing up, Edwina learned to cook from her father and bake from her mother. She carried those traditions throughout her life, becoming known for her Italian cookie trays, much-loved meals, and contributions to family feasts at Christmas and Easter. Her creativity extended well beyond the kitchen. She enjoyed painting, crocheting, knitting, and making whatever her children or grandchildren dreamed up. Whenever they asked, she was ready with beads, a needle and thread, or a crochet hook. Her annual hand-painted Christmas cards remain cherished keepsakes for those who received them.

Edwina’s life was filled with friendships and family adventures. She loved to dance, from Saturday nights with her parents as a young woman to line dancing with friends later in life. She enjoyed the beauty of Hawaii early in her adult life, the Finger Lakes and shores of North Carolina with her family, the magic of Disney World with her grandchildren, and Rendezvous camping with friends in Maine and the Virginias.

Her most cherished adventures, however, were the everyday moments with her children and grandchildren: cheering them on at sporting events, running up and down the sidelines, teaching them to crochet and paint, and singing with them in the kitchen while teaching them to make her favorite recipes like pizzelles, tomato sauce, meatballs, and twist cookies. Traditions and unwavering support for her family were an integral part of her character. She was there for birthdays, holidays, school events, good days, hard days, and everything in between.

Edwina’s devotion to her faith flourished at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Elmira, New York. She was an active part of parish life through the Sacred Heart Ladies, teaching religious instruction, and helping at the annual Italian Festival cake booth. Her faith also guided her daily life, as she prayed every morning and evening for the people she loved.

She is predeceased by her brothers, Edward, Daniel, and Stephen. She is survived by her son, John B. Pitts, and his children, Zachary and Zoe, of Wilmington, North Carolina; and her daughter, Alicia M. Fogarty, her husband, Sean, and their children, Brynn, Finley, Cardin, and Declan, of Charlotte, North Carolina.

Edwina leaves a legacy of love expressed through her presence, her creativity, and the traditions she shared. Her family will carry her memory forward in the recipes they make, the keepsakes they treasure, and the ways they show up for one another. Her faith and outlook on life are reflected in her words:

“It’s in God’s hands. What is, will be.”

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28277, on Friday, November 13, 2026, at 11:00 am.

Condolences may be shared at www.McEwenPinevilleChapel.com.