Lucy Castagna

Lucy (Tozzo) Castagna, 97, peacefully passed on to the Lord on Monday, April 20, 2020. She was a former resident of New Rochelle, NY for over 80 years, and later of Somers, NY. Lucy was the loving wife of the late John Anthony Castagna for over 41 years. They worked together in their Webster Upholstering business for 30 years, where Lucy took great pride in sewing draperies and slipcovers. She was born in New Rochelle to the late Vincent and Vincenza Tozzo, both of Calitri, Italy and owners of Tozzo Construction. Lucy had 12 siblings, all of whom have predeceased her: Vito, Angie, Antoinette, Pat, Rose, Josephine, Salvatore, Michael, Mary, Arthur, Bernard, and Helen. She is survived by her beloved sisters-in-law: Anna Tozzo, Marie Tozzo, and Nancy (Castagna) Foertsch.

She is considered the matriarch of the family, whose home was always a hub of joy and laughter. With her passing, she leaves a legacy of love and kindness that will echo in the hearts of all who knew her. Lucy is survived by and will be greatly missed by her devoted children: Barbara Slater (Bob), Joan Schenck (Charlie), Debbie Wu (Victor), Linda Palumbo (Nick) and Robert Castagna (Tracy). She was also the loving mother of the late John Paul Castagna. Lucy was adored by her beloved grandchildren: Brian Slater (Alessia), Gregory Slater (Phoebe), Jeanne Bassett (Kevin), Christopher Schenck, Grace & Kai Wu, Joseph & Lia Palumbo and the late Nicholas John Palumbo, Juliette & Jadyn Castagna, and eight great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews.

Lucy was a longtime active parishioner of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Pelham Manor. Also, Lucy and her late husband were members of the Sons of Italy Heritage Lodge.

Her passion for making crafts, sewing and crocheting started at a young age and paved the way for her to become an accomplished seamstress later in life. In her early years, she enjoyed horseback riding and frequent trips to Amawalk with her friends. Lucy loved to cook delicious Italian meals and bake irresistible desserts, which she will always be remembered for. Whether it was meatballs or cheesecake, many family members and friends were fortunate to receive one of her homemade Italian dishes, which she would create with love. Lucy spent many hours working outside in her garden and was excited to see the flowers bloom in the Spring. When she was relaxing, you could find her either watching "I Love Lucy" or listening to music from the 30's, 40's, and 50's, such as Glenn Miller and Bobby Darin. She loved dancing to "Mack the Knife" with her late husband, John. Her biggest joy throughout the years was spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. When she saw any of them her whole face would light up with love and happiness. Lucy embraced life to the fullest and her incredible spirit, positive attitude and great sense of humor continued to shine through as she survived with Alzheimer's disease for the past 15 years. Lucy was a strong and kind woman loved by all who knew her. The theme "I Love Lucy" became her trademark. Lucy will surely be missed.

Due to the restrictions from the COVID-19 Virus, funeral services will be held privately with burial at Beechwoods Cemetery in New Rochelle, NY. Her family will be planning a public Celebration of Her Life to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lucy's memory to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 559 Pelham Manor Road, Pelham Manor New York 10803.