Obituary of Grace Gloria Pignatelli

Grace "Goody" Pignatelli (nee Nicosia) passed away on May 13, 2024, at the age of 96 in Stamford, Connecticut. She was born on December 29, 1927, in New York, New York.

Grace was typically called Goody by family, friends, and others who knew her, a nickname given to her at an early age. Her concern and care for others was genuine and sincere throughout her life. She loved to cook for those she loved. A Bronx native, Grace worked as a popular waitress in an Italian restaurant in her neighborhood for several years. She moved to Rhinebeck, New York, shortly after her loving husband, Joseph, who preceded her in death, retired. There, she worked as a volunteer in the town’s hospital. With determination and the loving support of her husband, she learned to drive at 70 years old, and lived an independent life upon her husband’s passing.

Grace had a deep appreciation for music and literature. In her leisure time, Grace enjoyed reading historical novels, The New York Times, and listening to Italian opera. She loved watching classic movies from the 1930s, 40s, and 50s. Grace had an uncanny memory of the plots and actors.

Family was the center of her life. Grace was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She is survived by her son, Frank Pignatelli and his life partner, Lili Costa; her son, Charles Pignatelli and his wife, Barbara Stephenson Pignatelli; and her daughter, Judy Madonna and her husband Foster Madonna. Grace is also survived by her 4 grandchildren: Bianca, Luca, Jessica, and Matthew, and her great grandchild, Mila.

Grace's life will be celebrated at St. Aloysius Roman Catholic Church. The Hoyt Funeral Home in New Canaan, CT, is assisting with the funeral arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to National Shrine of St. Jude (www.shrineofstjude.org) in memory of Grace Pignatelli.