Mary Christine Grasso

Mary Christine (Vitagliano) Grasso: a loving Mother, a doting Grandmother, a dear Sister and always a caring friend, passed away unexpectantly at 62 years old from a recently diagnosed lung disease and pneumonia at Portsmouth Hospital on August 16, 2022.

She was born in Portsmouth, on Thursday, July 28th, 1960 to John J. and Lillian J. (Fox) Vitagliano. Mary was the second youngest of seven children and was predeceased by her brother Paul Vitagliano, the youngest child, who died in April 2020.

Soon after graduating from Portsmouth High School in 1979, Mary followed in her mother's footsteps by pursuing a nursing career and received her New Hampshire Nursing Assistant Certification (LNA) in August 1979. Her natural nurturing demeanor served her well in the excellent care that she provided her patients at The Edgewood Manor (1979-1980), Dover House Health Care (1987-1990) and at Varney Crossing Nursing Care Center (1990-1991).

She is survived by two very close children: Tom (TJ) Grasso, jr., and Melissa (Grasso) Lugar married to George Lugar. Her beloved grandchildren, who she enjoyed spending as much time as possible with include: TJ's children; Haley Grasso & Ryan Grasso, and Melissa's children; Aaron Grasso & Austin Skinner Grasso. Surviving sisters and brothers include: Lillian M. Seitz, Joanne Lafond, Carmine Vitagliano, John A. Vitagliano and Jim Vitagliano.

Family was always the most important part of Mary's life, her priorities and her love. She will be tearfully missed especially at special family events and grandchildren milestones. Her sense of humor, welcoming and having a great time with everyone were a joy to experience.