Mary was born on December 11, 1924 in Newark, N.J. She was the daughter of Carmela and Louis Di Maio. Mary grew up in East Orange, and graduated from East Orange High School in 1942. While in high school, she took business courses at Citizens Preparatory Correspondence School in Newark, N.J. After completing the civil service exam, she worked for the war department in the Eastern Material Command until the war ended. She later worked for the Social Security Administration, and held various managerial positions prior to her marriage to the love of her life; her husband John, on June 5, 1948.
After moving to Whippany, N.J., Mrs. Sellitto worked at Sandoz Pharmaceuticals in data processing. After taking time off to raise a family, she went to work for the Morris County Superintendent of Schools as Administrative Assistant until her retirement in 1983. She was a member of the Rosary Society at Notre Dame of Mount Carmel in Cedar Knolls, N.J. She and her husband resided in Whippany for 30 years, until moving to Tampa in 1984. They were members of St. Paul’s Catholic Church. Mary was also a member and past president of the Forest Hills Garden Club. She was an accomplished seamstress and enjoyed reading and travel, but most of all, she treasured the time she spent with her family.
Mary was predeceased by her beloved husband, John, of 60 years, her brother Nick Di Maio and son-in-law, Craig Bexley. She is survived by her loving son, Jeffrey Sellitto (Maryann) and daughter, Debra Bexley. She was also a devoted grandmother to Jonathan Sellitto, Michael Sellitto, Bryan Bexley (Natalie), Kevin Bexley (Jessica), Keith Bexley (Elise), and 5 great-grandchildren; Beatrice, Grace, Ellis, Craig, and Corbin, who were her pride and joy. Mary is also survived by her sister-in-law, Rose Di Maio, and 2 nephews; Nicky and Louis DiMaio.
Visitation will be held on Friday, May 14 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Blount & Curry Funeral Home, 3207 W Bears Avenue, Tampa. A Funeral Mass will take place in Cedar Knolls, N.J. at Norte Dame of Mount Carmel, Wednesday May 19th at 10am. A graveside service will follow at Holy Rood Cemetery.
The family of Mary Sellitto wishes to extend our sincere thanks to her wonderful and compassionate caregivers, Tara Ramsamooj and Rose Hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Please click the link below for donations to be made in memory of Mary.
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