Mrs. Mary Margaret (Cittadino) Napoli

UTICA – Mrs. Mary Margaret (Cittadino) Napoli, age 78, gained her angel wings on Friday, November 1, 2024, with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica on April 20, 1946, Mary Margaret was the daughter of the late Joseph and Rose (Carnivale) Cittadino. She was raised in East Utica, proud of her Italian Heritage and attended local schools. She married August F. “Gus” Napoli, Jr., from which union came the blessing of three children. Mary Margaret’s most important job was being a Mom and Nonnie, which brought her great joy. She never missed a school function, sport game or event to show her love and support to her children and grandchildren over the years. She was employed part time with Medical Arts and had a strong work ethic and built lasting relationships. Mary Margaret’s doors were always open, ready to welcome her family and friends. She loved the holidays and took great pride in these gatherings. Her home was impeccably decorated, and the food and gifts were abundant. She was a phenomenal cook, especially her calamari, braciole, mussels, eggplant, stuffed artichokes, and the trays of ribbons at Christmas. We will miss the yearly making of the cassata, and the laughter and memories it brought. Always up for a good time, Mary Margaret was often the life of the party and full of laughter. There was never a moment in her home that the music wasn’t playing. She loved her crafting projects with her daughters, bingo, taking trips to the casinos, especially bus trips to Atlantic City, and Vernon Downs. She was a true NY Yankees fan and never missed a game. Mary Margaret was passionate about helping others. She volunteered at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, receiving many accolades for her time and devotion. She also proudly served as President of the St. Elizabeth’s Guild, where she aided with operations and fund raising. Mary Margaret is survived by her children and their loves, Deborah and Michael Griffin, Tommy Napoli and fiancée Tara Falco, and Michelle and George Kelley; grandchildren, Madison “Maddie” Griffin, with whom she shared a special relationship and was “the light of her life”; the cherished memory of Michael Patrick Griffin, Jr., born an angel on December 27, 2002; Anthony Griffin, Michael Falco, and Nicole Kelley; sisters, Diane Fidell, and Roseann McShane; and her brother-in-law, Robert Sisti. She fondly remembered her sisters who passed away before her, Phyllis Medley, Jeanne A. “Ginny” Sisti, and Kathleen “Kathy” White. She further leaves her memory to many beloved nieces and nephews; and her dear friends, Sherry Bolten, and Phyllis Padula. Our mom is the strongest woman we know, who fought so hard over the years with many health challenges. While our hearts ache not having her here with us, we have comfort knowing she is now in peace. We wish to thank our family, friends, and numerous medical professionals for their outpouring of support, especially over these past few months. In honoring her wishes, there will be no calling hours. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Mary Margaret’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Friday, November 8, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay St. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of the service. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mrs. Mary Margaret (Cittadino) Napoli

April 20, 1946 - November 1, 2024