Deana Marie Santospago

Deana Marie Santospago of Norton, formerly of Foxboro and Norwood, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2025, at the age of 57. She was surrounded by her loved ones. She was born in Norwood, Massachusetts on September 14, 1968 to the late Peter Lewis Santospago and Judith Ann (Smith) Letourneau.

Deana was a beloved mother to “the apples of her eyes”, Derek Ricci of Attleboro,  Cassidy Ricci of Norton, and was predeceased by her daughter Taylor Ricci. She was the loved Nommy of her grandson Dax Ricci as well as her many furbabies. Deana also leaves the love of her life and best friend Alfred Ricci of Norton.  Deana was the adored sister of Peter Santospago of Attleboro,  Kevin Letourneau and his wife Christine of Norwood, and Susan Bethelette and her husband Bill of Mansfield. Cherished cousin of Melissa Brown, Andrea Byron, and Rick Smith. Loved aunt of Kylie and Keegan Letourneau.

Deana was born and spent much of her life in Norwood, a town she loved. She graduated from Norwood High School as a member of the Class of 1986.

She loved attending dance classes with her soul sister, riding her bike all over town, dancing, laughing, and being a sidekick to all that she held close. She then moved to Foxboro, where she began the next chapter of her life.

Deana loved her children tremendously. Her daughter Cassidy describes her mom as being the most amazing person that anyone should be lucky enough to meet. Her strength and resilience were admirable, qualities to be in awe of and aspire to acquire. Despite all that she endured she did not ever complain. Instead she listened. Over a can of Coke, a cup of coffee, or a great Netflix series she was there to listen and support those she loved.

There was nothing in this world that Deana loved more than her children. She dedicated her entire life to her children. She was an amazing grandmother to Dax, who ran to her the moment he entered her home, as well as to her furbabies.

Deana loved to dance and to travel. She loved the summer heat and the beach. She loved her people and her wish was that they all be happy. Deana was humble, despite her beauty. The impact she has made on the lives that she has touched will last forever.

Deana’s legacy is one of strength and endurance. Regardless of the challenges faced, Deana stood and met them.

James 1: 2-4 -”Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, because you know the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.”

These are the values that Deana instilled in those that she met. She taught them to love deeply, to have empathy, and to be strong.

Visiting Hours will be held in the Gillooly Funeral Home, 126 Walpole Street (Rt. 1A) NORWOOD on Wednesday, October 1, from 4PM-8PM. Relatives and friends are invited to gather in the Funeral Home on Thursday beginning at 9AM, prior to the Funeral Mass which will be celebrated in St. Timothy Catholic Church, 650 Nichols St, Norwood at 10:30AM. Interment will follow at Highland Cemetery, Norwood.