In a city where memories are dear to the hearts of its residents, it’s often the stories that define us. The laughter, the tears, the triumphs, and the struggles – they’re the threads that weave a rich tapestry of community, and for Samantha “Sam” Smith, those threads are about to come to a close. As the news of her passing spreads, the local community is coming together to pay their respects and celebrate her remarkable life.
Biography and Life
Maria Giuseppe Carrozza was born on March 11, 1928, in South Philadelphia to Italian immigrant parents, Flaviano Tatta and Cesira Di Giuseppe, of Campobasso, Italy. As a young child, Maria enjoyed singing in school, as well as the craft of sewing. She attended vocational school and would often make her own clothes, and later clothes and dresses for her children.
Early Years
Maria’s early life was filled with a passion for music and sewing. She would often sing in school and create her own clothes, developing a skill that would later benefit her children. Her attendance at vocational school further honed her sewing skills, and she would go on to make dresses for her children.
Marriage and Family
Maria met Orlando Carrozza, also from South Philadelphia, in Wildwood, New Jersey. They were married on June 10, 1950, at Saint Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. Maria and Orlando had three children – Maria, Rosanne, and Anthony. As a devoted mother, Maria proudly spent her time cooking, upkeeping her house, and caring for her children, as well as her parents.
As the fearless matriarch, Maria made their house a home and prided herself on placing the highest value on the needs of her family. Her children and grandchildren were the center of her universe, and she would stop at nothing to provide for them.
Career and Personal Life
Throughout her young life, Maria worked several jobs, including at a patch-making factory and, some years later, a neighborhood candy store. It was there that Maria saved enough money to purchase her first car after completing driving lessons with her oldest daughter.
In her spare time, Maria was actively involved in a ladies Bingo group that she referred to as “club.” In 1975, Maria became a crossing guard in Northeast Philadelphia, covering a busy five-point intersection. This part-time job was ideal since it allowed her the time she needed to also care for her father, who was living with her family at the time.
Maria worked as a crossing guard for 32 years, retiring at the age of 79. She was also a constant presence and highly active in caring for her three grandchildren – Joey, Kristina, and Alyssa. Cooking was Maria’s passion and one of her many talents. Each week, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays were religiously reserved as macaroni night.
Maria loved to host elaborate, multicourse dinners for her family and friends. She was truly a “one-woman show” and somehow did it all herself with poise, grace, and impeccable timeliness. Her happiest times were spent around the dinner table with her family.
Legacy and Impact
Family and Legacy
Maria was an extremely devoted mother who proudly spent her time cooking, upkeeping her house, and caring for her children, as well as her parents. She made their house a home and prided herself with placing the highest value on the needs of her family. Maria’s family will always remember her as the strongest, bravest, and most courageous woman they know.
Community and Impact
Maria was a constant presence and highly active in caring for her three grandchildren – Joey, Kristina, and Alyssa. She loved to host elaborate, multicourse dinners for her family and friends. Maria’s passion for cooking and her ability to bring people together will be remembered for years to come.
Health and Endurance
Maria was diagnosed with a rare form of Vasculitis that attacked her lungs and kidneys in 2011. She endured a tremendous amount of irreversible pain the entire time, yet never complained or faltered. Maria’s bravery and resilience in the face of adversity will inspire her family and community for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the obituary information for Samantha “Sam” Smith, as shared by James O’Donnell Funeral Home, serves as a poignant reminder of the impact one individual can have on the lives of those around them. Through the details of her life, we gain insight into the values, passions, and relationships that defined her existence. This tribute, crafted with care and compassion, not only honors the deceased but also provides a sense of closure for those who mourn her loss.
As we reflect on the significance of this obituary, we are reminded of the importance of acknowledging the lives of those who have passed. By sharing their stories, we preserve their memories and offer a testament to the connections they formed with others. This act of remembrance is a powerful way to process grief, find solace, and celebrate the time we had with our loved ones. As we move forward, we are encouraged to appreciate the time we have with those around us and to make the most of every moment.