

Innocent Marie Vetrano Cangelosi, 83, passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026. She was born on June 14, 1942, in Houston, Texas, and grew up surrounded by the city, family, and faith that shaped her into the beautiful women she was.
Innocent attended Incarnate Word Academy in Houston and carried with her a strong sense of devotion, compassion, and joy that became her signature. In the 1990s, she worked as a co-owner and florist at Brazos Floral on West Holcombe Blvd, where her talent and care brought beauty into people’s lives for weddings, celebrations, and everyday moments.
A devout Catholic, Innocent was actively involved in Holy Family Catholic Church in Missouri City, Texas, where she served her church community with tireless dedication. She led the annual bazaar committee for several years where she received numerous recognitions for her leadership. She was also in charge of the annual Feast of St. Joseph Altar, which grew into one of the largest festivals of its kind in the greater Houston area, resulting in significant local recognition on local television news.
Her faith was not quiet or private; it was something she shared. She encouraged others to pray, often recommending specific saints for help, comfort, and guidance. She was also a deep believer in angels, and in her own special way, would “send angels” to loved ones for protection and peace during difficult times.
Innocent had a generous heart and a simple view of what mattered most. She didn’t place importance on material possessions and was known for giving away money, belongings, and help, often quietly, to people in need. She also had a gift for listening, sitting with others in their hardest moments, and offering prayers, encouragement, and steady support.
Her family will always remember the joy she brought into their home. When her children were young, she loved dressing up as a clown to entertain them and make them laugh. She loved family time in the kitchen, cooking, visiting, and keeping the heart of the house full of warmth. She enjoyed dining out, especially celebrating special occasions at local Chinese restaurants, and proudly cheered on Houston sports teams, passionately rooting for the Astros, Texans, and Rockets. She loved Country and Western music, staying up late watching old movies, and had a sweet tooth for dark chocolates, especially those with sea salt or dried fruit.
Innocent was preceded in death by her mother, Pauline Salvato Vetrano; her father, Joe Vetrano; her brothers, Emmanuel and Carlo Vetrano; and her aunt and uncle, Finna and Joe Rao.
She was married to Carlo Cangelosi for over 20 years and is survived by her three sons, Tony (Vicki), John (Natasha), and Mark (Courtney) Cangelosi and her grandchildren, Tony Jr., Valeri, Reid, Tate, and Caden Cangelosi, along with many relatives and friends who were touched by her faith, kindness, humor, and generous spirit.
Innocent’s legacy is one of love, laughter, prayer, and a heart that always made room for others. She will be deeply missed.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home, 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077.
Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the same location.
The committal will take place at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery at 12:30 pm.
Pallbearers will include Tony Cangelosi Sr., John Cangelosi, Mark Cangelosi, Tony Cangelosi Jr., EJ Vetrano, and Joseph Church.
PALLBEARERS
Tony Cangelosi Sr.
John Cangelosi
Mark Cangelosi
Tony Cangelosi Jr.
EJ Vetrano
Joey Bourett
Joseph Church (Honorary)
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