Mary G. Paparella

Maria G. Paparella, lovingly known to all as Aunt Mary, passed away peacefully in her bed on November 17th, 2025, at Carmel Richmond Nursing Home. Born and raised in Staten Island, New York. Aunt Mary spent her life surrounded by the community and family she cherished so deeply.

A devout and loyal parishioner of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, Aunt Mary lived her faith quietly and sincerely, finding strength, comfort, and community within her parish throughout her life.

A dedicated and hardworking woman, Aunt Mary built a long and admirable career as an administrative assistant, working for ITT for 30 years and later for TIAA Cref for 10 years. She was a proud member of the Telephone Pioneers of America and the ITT Quarter Century Club, honors that reflected her loyalty and commitment to her profession.

For 10 years, she also volunteered at St. Vincent’s Hospital, offering her time, compassion, and helping hands to patients, staff, and families. Her service expressed the same generosity and selflessness she carried throughout her entire life.

Each day, Aunt Mary commuted by public transportation into New York City—a routine that blossomed into a lifelong love for its culture. She found joy in attending performances at the Metropolitan Opera House as well as numerous NYC theaters, embracing the arts with enthusiasm and appreciation.

Aunt Mary was also an avid baker, known throughout the family for her delicious treats and treasured recipes. Her passion for baking became a gift she passed down to her loved ones, who continue to carry on her recipes and traditions with pride and affection.

Above all, Aunt Mary was a caregiver at heart. Whether tending to a sick relative or offering support and companionship, she was always there—steadfast, nurturing, and selfless. Her generosity touched countless lives, and her nurturing presence became a cornerstone of the family. She was also fondly known for her impeccable ironing skills, a simple but memorable testament to the care she put into everything she did.

Aunt Mary is survived by her loving nieces Frances Sciulla, Susan Paparella, Claire Fournier, and nephews Joseph Paparellaand Arthur Fournier, as well as many great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews who adored her. She was preceded in death by her beloved brothers Emile and Jesse Paparella, and her sister Stella Zito.

Services will be held at Harmon’s Funeral Home, 571 Forest Ave., Staten Island, NY 10310, on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 5:00–8:00 PM.

A Funeral Mass will take place at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church at 9:45 AM on Saturday, November 22, followed by burial at St. Peter’s Cemetery, Staten Island, NY.

Aunt Mary leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, love, devotion, and warmth that will be felt for generations.

In lieu of flowers, you can donate on behalf of Mary Paparella to St. Jude’s Children Hospital or Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).