Obituary of Maria Gaita

Maria Gaita, born on November 19, 1933, in the hillside town of Montefredane, Italy, passed away with her family close by. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and quiet strength. Maria was the cherished daughter of Luigi and Gaetana Giordano, who instilled in her the values of kindness, devotion, and deep family connection that she carried throughout her life.

Maria married her beloved husband Antonio in Italy and together they began their life’s greatest adventure. In 1958, with courage and hope, they journeyed to America with their infant twins, determined to build a future filled with opportunity. Over the years their family grew and Maria poured her heart into raising their four children: Ida Sorrenti (Phill), Tony Gaita (Roxanne), Rosa Verzolini (Brian), and Anna Mistretta (Mike). Her children were her pride, her purpose, and the center of her world.

Maria was blessed with seven grandchildren and six great‑grandchildren, each one bringing her endless joy. She treasured every visit, every phone call, every milestone. Her love for her family was unconditional and felt in the small, everyday moments that became cherished memories.

She shared an especially deep bond with her sister, Ida Famiglietti. Their relationship was one of lifelong closeness and a connection built on shared history, laughter, and unwavering support. Sundays were their sacred rhythm, gathering for family dinners where cousins played, stories were passed around the table, and the whole family stayed beautifully united.

Faith was the foundation of Maria’s days. She loved attending Mass, seeing her parish friends and even when her health made it difficult to go in person, she never missed watching her daily Mass on television. Her devotion was quiet but steadfast, a reflection of the gentle spirit she carried.

Maria found joy in simple pleasures, especially sitting on her porch and watching the neighborhood go by, always greeting people with her warm smile. She loved people and people loved her. She had a way of making everyone feel welcomed and cared for.

Maria was kind and sincere. She was loving in a way that felt effortless and genuine. Her presence brought comfort and her absence leaves a space that can only be filled with the memories she leaves behind.  She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were touched by her gentle heart. Her legacy lives on in the love she gave so freely and the lives she shaped with her grace.

May she rest in eternal peace.  

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Donations may be made online by following the link below.
St. Jude Children's Research Hosptial Donation Page

The visitation for Maria Gaita will be held at Marine Park Funeral Home on Friday, February 27, 2026 from 3:00 to 8:00 PM. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Columba Roman Catholic Church on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 10:00 AM - the family will be arriving at the funeral home by 9:00 AM. The Committal Service will immediately follow the Funeral Mass at St. Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale, NY.