October 26, 1930 – December 27, 2024
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Marie J. Mazzuca, our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend. Marie left this world on December 27, 2024, at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and unwavering devotion.
Born in Italy on October 26, 1930, Marie’s journey to America was one of courage and resilience. At the age of 9, she sailed across the ocean with her mother to reunite with her father in America. Though she left her homeland and all she knew behind, she carried the rich traditions and values of her Italian roots with her throughout her life. Marie was predeceased by her parents Maria and Luigi Gerbasi, and her beloved husband, Duilio.
As a devoted homemaker, Marie created a warm, loving home where her family always came first. She dedicated herself to her parents, husband, children, and grandchildren with a selflessness that knew no bounds. Her home was a sanctuary filled with laughter, kindness, and the nurturing care of a mother who was always there—whether it was with a comforting word, a homemade meal, or a gentle hug. Her family was the center of her world, and she took great pride in every milestone they achieved. Marie’s legacy lives on through her two daughters, Louise Mazzuca and Silvana Giustino, her son-in-law Louie Giustino, and her cherished grandchildren: Anthony Giustino and his wife Kara Giustino, Valerie Giustino, Marie Giustino and her partner Michael Smith, Claudia Dunbar and her husband Patrick Dunbar, and her great-granddaughter, Isabella Giustino. Each of them carries a piece of her heart and spirit, and she will forever be a guiding light in their lives.
Marie’s faith was her anchor, and for over 50 years, she was an active and devoted member of her church. She gave freely of her time, volunteering both within the church and in her community, always with a kind word and a willing heart. Her generosity and compassion touched many, and her quiet strength and humility inspired those who knew her. Though her love for her family and community was boundless, Marie also had a deep love for books. Reading was her passion, and she found peace in the written word. Whether it was a novel, a story of history, or a poem, Marie’s mind was always at work, always seeking knowledge and joy in the pages she turned.
Marie’s life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and kindness. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed. Though we are heartbroken by her loss, we are comforted by the knowledge that her love and teachings will continue to guide us, as we hold her memory close.
Marie will be reposing on Monday, December 30th, from 3:00 - 7:00 pm at Riverdale-on-Hudson Funeral Home, 6110 Riverdale Ave., Bronx, NY 10471. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, December 31st, at 9:45 am at St. Margaret of Cortona Catholic Church, 6000 Riverdale Ave., Bronx, NY 10471. Following the Mass, she will be laid to rest at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 10 W Stevens Ave, Hawthorne, NY 10532.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Marie’s memory, honoring the grace with which she faced life’s challenges.
May she rest in eternal peace, wrapped in the love she so freely gave to all of us.