Marie Santucci

Marie Santucci was the second of eleven children born on April 10, 1910, to Giuseppa and Fortunato Trovato, Italian immigrants from Sicily. Marie's formal education was cut short around the sixth grade, when she began to assist her mother with piece-work sewing, which they did at home. As she grew older, she worked as a seamstress in commercial factories.

She married John James Santucci in 1939, and gave birth to their son, John Frederick Santucci, in 1941. They lived in Newark, New Jersey, her place of birth, until 1957, when they moved to Florida, her home for the remainder of her life.

As a sister, Marie earned the love and respect of her siblings; and as "Aunt Marie" she enjoyed the love and affection of dozens of nieces and nephews. By the force of her character and concern for the well-being of her brothers and sisters, Marie became the matriarch of the Trovato family. She was the "go-to" person when a family member needed a shoulder to cry on, a pat on the back, or support and advice during difficult times.

Marie is survived by her son, John, and his wife, Maud Marie; grandchildren Michael Santucci (Daphne), Amy Clements (Phillip), and Leigh Ann Crowe (Jeffrey); great-grandchildren Matthew Santucci, Aaron Santucci, Cori Santucci, Steven Clements, Sean Clements, and Julia Crowe; and sisters Sally Daly and Gloria Caughlin.

Marie left us on January 20, 2012, at 101 years of age, after a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease. God speed, Marie--you have left an indelible mark on all who knew and loved you.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting contributions in Marie's name to a charity of your choice or:

Alzheimer's Disease Initiative Respite Program

Joseph Meyerhoff Senior Center

3081 Taft Street

Hollywood, FL 33021

We are grateful to all who have been so thoughtful and caring during these past several months. Your kindness and support have meant much to us and helped get us through the difficult times.