Albina Marucci-Villani was born year 1934 in Lucoli, L’Aquila in Italy.  Mamma grew up in Italy with 5 siblings; her brother Benito and sisters Elvia & Elda.  Her brother Albino and another sister passed away during childhood.

Our Mamma had an adventurist and childlike nature.  She enjoyed the outdoors; especially the beach.  She would appreciate and admire the views intensely savoring the moments.

The most important focus of her life was her family.  Her world revolved around everything about family, especially her children (Robert, Angela & Tony).  She asked questions constantly and desired to know every detail of our lives (did I already mention constantly?).  We would joke occasionally that we would submit a weekly report to her.

Mamma was a natural born Hostess.  She enjoyed talking and meeting people.  Socializing gave her joy.  She spent most of her time in the kitchen; creating delicious homemade Italian dishes. The neighbors commented many times about the beautiful aroma coming from Mamma’s house; wishing they could eat with us while they ordered their takeout.  Actually, she brought food to the neighbors many times.  Food was very important to our Mamma and we think her goal in life was to feed as many people as possible.  Growing up with money struggles and World War II (duration 1939 to 1945)contributed to that.  She talked many times about the struggles and starvation her family endured. When Mamma was about 20 years old, she came to America with her husband Nicola Villani.  They had very little and in addition not knowing any English was yet another struggle.  But she quickly picked up the language, became a citizen and learned to drive.  Her laugh was infectious, and always made our day. Hearing Mamma pitter patter around the house always gave us a warm secure feeling and we deeply miss that. Food was so important to her that one time she was preparing dinner for her daughter Angela, daughter in law Kathy and granddaughter Krystal.  When the food was placed on the table, Angela said, “You know, I don’t feel well.  I have this large spider bite on my neck with a reddish trail of poison headed in the direction of my heart.  I feel feverish too.  That can’t be good.  Take me to Urgent Care.”  Mamma quickly replied, “But the food will get cold”.  She was quite an interesting character; too many funny things to mention. She kept everyone constantly amused. Our Mamma, A Great Italian Cook and Comedian.

Thank you for sharing this day with us.

With much love, Robert (first born), Angela (middle) & Tony (youngest)