Theresa Marafino

Theresa Marie "Teddie" Marafino (Nee Nuzzi) Teddie, as she was known to friends - and she had many - was born in New Rochelle NY on July 17, 1912 to Pellegrino Nuzzi and Maria DeLucca. She passed away after a short illness on December 28, 2010, having lived for more than 57 years in the same home in San Leandro CA. She was married to Benedict J. ("Murph") Marafino Sr (LCDR, USN, Ret.), who predeceased her in 2002. Together they raised four children, each to happy and productive adulthood: Ben Jr (Carol), Paul, Mary Colburn, and Theresa Louys (David). She is also survived by five grandchildren: Ben III, Michelle and Andrew Colburn, Rachel Peterka and Amanda Louys. Teddie proudly claimed her role as homemaker, wife and mother (and later Grandma); she loved her children and grandchildren passionately, and never failed to stop to coo and gurgle over any infant she saw on the street or in stores. Raised by her father and aunts from the age of six months when her own mother was taken from her, she nonetheless had fabulous maternal instincts and parenting skills; she was a natural at giving unconditional love, and she got it back from all her offspring. Her fiercely independent spirit gave her the ability to live alone successfully in the family house until two months prior to her passing. She had a wonderful sense of humor, was always the kidder, and was known as a great cook, specializing - naturally - in Italian food and in desserts, which she loved to consume as well as prepare. She always claimed "If you leave my house hungry, it's your fault." A service in commemoration of her life will be held at Grissom's Mortuary, 267 East Lewelling Blvd, San Lorenzo (510) 278-2800 on Tuesday January 4 at 7 pm; inurnment will be private.