Lorraine Cusato

Lorraine Cusato (née Zacchi), a woman of immense heart, boundless generosity, and vibrant spirit, passed away peacefully at the age of 80.Born in Brooklyn, New York, Lorraine was the beloved daughter of the late Amelia and Joseph Zacchi. She spent many wonderful years building a beautiful life and home in Great Kills, before most recently residing in Huguenot, Staten Island. For 20 years, she was married to the late Richie Cusato, with whom she shared a deep history and a family.Lorraine’s entire world revolved around her family, whom she loved with all her heart. She was a fiercely devoted mother to her adopted children, whom she brought home from Bogota, Colombia as babies and loved fiercely: her daughter, Christine (and her boyfriend Carlos), and her son, Richie Jr. She was the cherished mother-in-law to Dina, and the proudest grandmother to her adored granddaughter, Adrianna.She is also survived by her loving sister, Anita, and brother-in-law, Patrick; her dear goddaughter, Melissa; her nephew, Matthew (and his wife Antoinette); and her great-nephew, Joseph, all of whom brought immense joy to her life. Lorraine’s love extended to her many special, close friends whom she spoke to often, and her treasured dogs who crossed the rainbow bridge ahead of her: Mikey, Toby, Niko, Cody, and Bandit.Lorraine was a woman who knew how to celebrate life. A woman of faith, she was a dedicated member of St. Clare’s Church and frequently attended Mass at Holy Child. She brought her warm smile to the community through her years working as a teller at Santander Bank and in retail at JC Penney, where she loved interacting with people every day.An enthusiast for the finer and fun things in life, Lorraine loved to dance, dress up in her beautiful jewelry, and eat out at her favorite Italian restaurants. She was an avid online and in-person shopper, always looking for the perfect find. Above all, she was known as a remarkably thoughtful and generous gift giver.Lorraine made every everyday moment feel like a celebration. She loved to decorate her home for every single holiday, but Christmas held a magical place in her heart—so much so that she happily watched Christmas movies all year long. When she wasn't decorating or spending time with family, she could often be found chasing excitement and smiles at the Quick Hit machines in Atlantic City and Parx Casino.Lorraine’s warmth, laughter, and unconditional love leave an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew her, but her festive spirit will live on in every holiday decoration, every dance, and every acts of generosity done in her honor.