Maria Lucia Centofanti, age 91

of Westwood

Maria Lucia Centofanti, age 91

Maria Lucia (DiNezio) Centofanti, age 91, of Westwood, formerly of West Roxbury, died peacefully, Thursday, May 8, 2025 at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, in the peace and comfort of her loving family.

Maria was born in Canosa Sannita, Province of Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy, to the late Domenico and Concetta (D’Angela) DiNezio. Raised and educated there, she immigrated to the United States with her young family, arriving in New York City on April 6, 1956. She lived in Westwood for sixteen years, previously in West Roxbury for most of her life.

As a young woman, Maria worked as a seamstress in the Boston garment industry and later was employed as an assembler with Draper Laboratory in Cambridge for several years.

Maria was a woman of great faith and a longtime parishioner of Saint Theresa of Avila Church in West Roxbury. In recent years, she enjoyed attending Latin Masses, celebrated by Rev. Charles J. Higgins, at Mary Immaculate of Lourdes Church in Newton.

For ten years, Maria was a member of the Gruppo Folkloristico Orsognese, singing and performing at Italian clubs, churches, and outdoor events throughout the greater Boston area. She loved performing and dressing in the period clothing.

Most of all, Maria’s passion was her family. She was devoted to her husband, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, supporting all their many activities and accomplishments.

Beloved wife for sixty-nine years of the late Giovanni Nicolino Centofanti.

Devoted mother of Susan Assunta DiMascio and her husband Carmine “Nino” of Westwood, John Centofanti of Westwood and mother-in-law of Paula Centofanti of Westwood.

Loving Grandma of Carmine DiMascio and his wife Laura, Brian DiMascio and his wife Robin, Robert DiMascio and Meg Heneberry, Amanda Centofanti and Pat Fleming, Julia Centofanti and her husband Connor Fitzgerald, John Centofanti, and Adrianna Centofanti.

Cherished great Grandma of Eliana and Luca DiMascio, and Cecilia Fitzgerald.

The last of five siblings, Maria was predeceased by Nicoletta Tenaglia, twin brothers Raffaele and Antonio DiNezio, and her twin sister Angela DiNezio.

Maria is also survived by her sister-in-law, Angela Centofanti of Italy, as well as many nieces and nephews in Italy, and cousins.

Visiting Hours will be held at the Sweeney Brothers Home for Funerals, 1 Independence Avenue, Quincy, on Friday, May 16, from 4 – 7 p.m. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. A brief visitation will also be held in Mary Immaculate of Lourdes Church, 270 Elliot Street, Newton, on Saturday, May 17, from 10:15 – 10:45 a.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in Mary Immaculate of Lourdes Church, 270 Elliot Street, Newton, on Saturday, May 17, at 11 a.m. Interment Mount Benedict Cemetery, West Roxbury.

For those who wish, donations in Maria’s memory may be made to Mary Immaculate of Lourdes Church, 270 Elliot Street, Newton, MA 02464.

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  • What a loving,sweet , kind woman. I always loved seeing Aunt Lucy at family events
    and talking about her garden and the tomatoes she grew.
    She will be missed.
    (I’m Angela Dinezio’s daughter)

  • Maria remember our trip to Italy and you showed me where Padre Pio heard your confession. Now you can speak to Padre Pio face to face. May you be surrounded by many angels as they lead you to the glory of heaven. Rest in peace.

  • Maria you will be missed you’re at peace
    Sweet loving woman that you are
    Devoted to her faith and family
    May God bless you
    ❤️

  • Dear John and Sue
    I am deeply saddened to hear about the loss of your Mom. Words cannot express how sorry I am for you guys and your families. I have many wonderful memories of having supper at your house or watching Johnny being made too eat so much food that your Mom made him have before we went out for the night. Great memories!
    John White

  • Paula and Family
    Terribly sorry for your loss. My condolences. I pray for your peace and loving thoughts and your wonderful memories.
    With Care & love
    Sonya ElFar
    🙏💜

  • Carmen and Laura……and all extended family members

    We were saddened to learn of Mrs. Centoforti’s passing and know she was loved by all and certainly had a full and interesting life. Wish we could be with you but regardless , you all are in our prayers.

    Fondly ,

    Bill, Nancy and Family

  • Dear family of Aunt Lucy,

    I am so sorry to hear of Lucy’s passing. When we last met she had strong hugs, smiles & stories of my father, grandparents, and Italy. Aunt Lucy always made me feel close to them. Most of all I loved her gentle words, lovely smile & twinkle in her eye.

    Sending you all love and prayers.
    Carol Bearce (daughter of Charles DiNezio)