Gloria S. Martino

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Gloria S. Martino on December 31, 2024, at the age of 92. She passed away at her home in Valley Cottage, New York, surrounded by her husband, Michael, children and family.

Born on November 3, 1932, in New York City to Salvatore and Lena Farina, Gloria was the youngest of seven children. She grew up and attended school in East Harlem. It was at high school that she met her future husband Michael. His opening move was to sit behind her, and dip her pigtails into his ink well. It’s not entirely clear whether that was a standard approach to dating at the time, but in this instance it worked.

Gloria had an exceptionally close relationship with her sister Viola whom she lived with prior to marrying Michael on September 1, 1956. They settled in Valley Cottage, New York, where they built a warm and loving home. Together, they raised four children: Stephanie, Joseph, Jean, and Michael.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Gloria poured her heart into her family while also embracing her creative passions. She found joy in creating stained glass pieces, oil and watercolor paintings on canvas, leaving behind lovely works of art to be cherished by her children. She was an avid reader, enjoyed gardening and welcomed any stray cat that came her way. Her love of cats lives on in the lives of her daughters who have seven between them.

Mike and Gloria shared a love of travel, which led them to live in Italy and spend extended periods in Europe, including time in England. These adventures brought them great pleasure and unforgettable memories, enriching the life they built together for 68 wonderful years.

Gloria is predeceased by her siblings Louise, Anthony, Viola, Steve, Albert and Janette. She is survived by her beloved husband Michael, her children Stephanie (Nick) Macleod, Joseph (Veronica), Jean (John) Ruggiero, and Michael (Regina). She also leaves behind nine grandchildren: Alexandra, Taylor, Johnathan, Samantha, Ashley, Kayla, Jaime, Hope (Nicole), and Michael Jon, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

When someone you treasure becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.” Those of us who are left without her will treasure her memory forever.

A private family memorial service will be held at a later date to celebrate her life.