Anna DiCenso

Anna (DeSantis) DiCenso, of Braintree, formerly of Dorchester and Italy, beloved matriarch and cherished symbol of love and generosity, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on March 25, 1936, in the quaint village of Introdacqua, Italy, Anna was the treasured daughter of the late Franco and Maria (Matese) DeSantis. Her life was a testament to the strength and beauty of her Italian heritage, which she carried with grace throughout her years.
In 1965, Anna embarked on a courageous journey, immigrating to the United States where she would go on to weave the rich tapestry of her life. She quickly established herself as a skilled seamstress and later shared her culinary gifts as a cook at T. Anthony's restaurant in Boston. Her work was not merely a job; it was an extension of her love for others, serving warmth and comfort through every stitch and every dish she crafted.
Anna's heart found its truest joy in the embrace of her family. She was the beloved wife of the late Arduino DiCenso, and together they built a life filled with laughter, tradition, and countless memories. As a loving mother, she raised her daughter Rosetta Summers, alongside her husband John, in Braintree, instilling in them the values of kindness and devotion. Anna was also a devoted sister to Eraldo DeSantis of Braintree, Filomena Amatangelo of Italy, and she fondly remembered her late siblings Antonio DeSantis, Feliciano DeSantis, and Elena Iudiciani.
Anna's role as Nonni was perhaps her most cherished; her grandchildren Alessandra, Michael, and Juliana were the light of her life. She showered them with love, teaching them the joy of a home-cooked meal and the serenity found in tending a garden. Her legacy of love is also carried on by her many nieces, nephews, and her beloved dog Shelby, each of whom she held close to her heart.
Those who knew Anna will remember her for her loving spirit, kind-hearted nature, and generous soul. She could light up a room with her warm presence and make anyone feel at home with her inviting smile. Her passion for life was evident in her hobbies as well. An exceptional cook, Anna delighted in preparing traditional Italian feasts for her family and friends, ensuring no one ever left her table hungry. Gardening was another source of joy for her; she could often be found tending to her plants with the same care and attention she gave to her loved ones.
Anna's interests, though varied, all shared a common thread: the love for her family. Every moment spent with her children and grandchildren was a treasure, a time to impart wisdom, share stories of her youth, and create new memories that would endure for generations to come.
As we bid farewell to Anna, we reflect on a life lived with boundless love and an unwavering commitment to family. She has left behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide us. Her spirit, a beacon of kindness and generosity, will forever be remembered by those whose lives she touched.
Anna (DeSantis) DiCenso's life story is one of love crossing oceans, a journey from the hills of Italy to the heart of her family in Boston. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the profound impact she made on each of us. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive through the stories we share and the love we continue to give, just as she taught us.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend visiting hours on Thursday, January 16th, from 5:00 – 8:00 PM in the Cartwright-Venuti Funeral Home, 845 Washington St., Braintree. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, January 17th, at 10:00 AM in St. Clare Church, 1244 Liberty St., Braintree. Burial will follow in St. Michael Cemetery, Roslindale.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to Hope Health Hospice and Palliative Care, 1085 No. Main St., Providence, RI 02904 or to the Mass Special Hockey, c/o John Quill, 135 Main St., Norwell, MA 02061.
For directions or to leave a sympathy message for the family, visit www.cartwrightfuneral.com.